Jeffrey Lewis Vike

Jeffrey Lewis Vike, age 65, of McFarland, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 11, 2026, at UW East Madison Hospital, surrounded by loved ones after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Jeff was born on October 5, 1960, at Stoughton Hospital in Stoughton, Wisconsin, to William and Virginia Vike. He is survived by his loving wife, Pamela Goetsch-Vike, with whom he shared 33 wonderful years of love and partnership. The couple was united in marriage on May 7, 2005, at St. Ann's Church in Oxford, Wisconsin.

He was a proud and devoted father to his three stepsons: Ryan (Lindsey) Rothwell, Eric (Kaylin) Rothwell, and Robert (Ellie) Rothwell. Nothing brought him greater joy than being “Grandpa” to his four cherished grandchildren: Logan, Graham, Bruce, and Liliana. He treasured every moment spent with them, teaching them everything he could, sharing stories, and creating memories they will carry forever. Whether he was teaching his sons the ways of the trades, and possibly inspiring a mild tool obsession, or cooking weekends at the Koffee Kup in Stoughton for cases of burgers and chicken, Jeff always made sure the grill was full and there was a smile to be shared.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, William and Virginia Vike. He is also survived by his siblings: Norman (Sherry) Vike, Norma (Nigel) Plumber, Bob (Wonda) Vike, Billy (Sharon) Vike, Chad (Wendy) Vike, and Randy (Donna) Vike, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A 1979 graduate of Stoughton High School, Jeff went on to attend Madison Area Technical College to pursue plumbing. Throughout his life, he built a reputation as one of the hardest-working and most dependable people anyone could know. Jeff proudly served as a firefighter in Portage, Wisconsin, for four years, worked for more than 20 years as a plumber with Roto-Rooter and various other shops, and later spent five years working as a painter for P&H. If something was broken or needed fixing, he was always the person everyone called. A true jack of all trades, Jeff approached every task with skill, honesty, and determination.

Outside of work, Jeff lived life fully. He was an avid motorcycle rider who especially loved taking rides across Wisconsin on his Harley-Davidson with Pam riding on the back. Together, they explored countless Wisconsin state parks and enjoyed the freedom of the open road. He was also a passionate fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers.

One of his greatest joys was supporting his sons in athletics. He loved traveling to watch them play college football at the University of Iowa and Winona State University, never missing a home game. His family was always at the center of his life, and his dedication as a father and grandfather was unmatched.

Jeff will be remembered for his enormous heart, generosity, kindness, and willingness to help anyone in need. He deeply loved and cared for his family and friends, and his presence will be missed beyond measure.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and doctors at UW East Madison Hospital for their compassionate care and support, especially Dr. Rohan Bodapati and his care team.