Michael Ellifson

Michael Ellifson, age 72, died on February 12, 2026 after living with Alzheimer’s for the final years of his life. He was loved by many, especially by his wife of 47 years, Jennifer Karlsson, and his children, Lea, Blair and Grant, and his daughter-in-law, Megan Scott. Mike was a graduate of UW-Whitewater and worked as a commodity materials manager at Oscar Mayer for over thirty years. Mike loved music of all genres, travel, and his dogs. He never missed an opportunity to be present at his children’s athletic and academic activities, and was proud of their many accomplishments. Prior to his illness, Mike gave back to his community, volunteering at Luke House, the St Vincent de Paul food pantry, and the St Vincent de Paul Society conference at IHM. A regular blood donor, Mike’s CMV negative blood gave many premature infants a better chance at survival. In a world that sometimes feels as if it values meanness and stinginess, he was kind and generous. Mike was preceded in death by his daughter, Lea, and his parents, Cliff and Tina. Mike’s family is grateful for the attentive care he received from UW-Neurology, Catholic Charities Adult Day Program, Stoughton Hospital, Fountainhead Homes, Oak Medical and Brighton Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mike’s memory to causes he supported: Luke House; the St Vincent de Paul Food Pantry; the Wisconsin Companion Animal Resources, Education and Social Services (WisCARES) program, which aims to keep low income and unhoused individuals and their companion animals together. It would also honor Mike’s memory if you would consider being a blood, tissue or organ donor. Memorial services will be held for friends on Saturday April 18th at Olbrich Gardens from 1-4 pm, with a time of remembrance at 1:30 pm.