Michael J. Wilburn

Michael J. Wilburn of Cedarburg, WI, formerly of Belleville, IL passed away on Wednesday, August 30, 2017. His brokenhearted family will miss him, greatly. Michael was born on July 27, 1951 to Joan (nee Evans) Wilburn and Melvin Wren Wilburn. It was evident to everyone who knew Michael that he had finally met his soul mate when he met Kelli. Michael loved Kelli with all his heart whether they were traveling together, going to concerts or just hanging out with their dogs, Clancy and Henry. They found joy just being together. He seemed to make friends wherever he went and everyone was his “brother”. Kelli knew that there was no such thing as a quick trip into Sendiks for Michael. He would engage in conversation with everyone. Michael’s 12 years of Catholic school paid off. He loved being Catholic and said the rosary daily. If you were lucky enough to be Irish, you were Michael’s automatic friend. Although Kelli drove wherever they went, she happily took the “passenger seat” when it came to Michael. He made everyone feel special, especially the ladies. Young or old, everyone was his “Baby Doll”. Michael was a gifted storyteller. He would often tell stories about his children, his life in Alaska and Colorado, and his service in the Marine Corps. Michael loved being a construction worker and a member of the Laborers’ Union Local 113. His Union brothers were part of his extended family. He passionately loved his three children, Jesse, Sarah and Emily. He would do anything for them, except teach them how to drive! He felt especially blessed to be the grandfather of four wonderful children, Isaiah, Wyatt, Haven and Jaxson. Known for his thoughtfulness, kindness and gentle manner, Michael J. will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. The next time you have a chocolate malt, I dare you not to smile and think of Michael J. Michael is survived by his wife, Kelli Shannon-Wilburn of Cedarburg, WI children: Jesse (Lyndsey) Wilburn of Beaver Dam, WI, Sarah (Chad) Sires, of Jackson, WI and Emily Wilburn of West Bend, WI; grandchildren: Isaiah, Wyatt, Haven and Jaxson; brothers, Steven (Margaret) Wilburn, David (Melissa) Wilburn and Keith (Carol) Wilburn; sisters: Sally (Jim) Holman, Janet (Gina) Wilburn-Walker and Sandy (Bill) Wuller; sisters-in-law, Karen Shannon and Maureen Madison, nephew, Reid (Renee) Bartels, niece, Erin (Tim) Otters. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Wren Wilburn and Joan (nee Evans) Wilburn, brother, Gary Wilburn, and sisters, Mary Wilburn and Robin Wells. A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2017 from 11:00 AM until 12:45 PM at Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory, 979 N. Green Bay Road, Grafton, WI. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, at the funeral home at 1:00 PM. Immediately following the service there will be a celebration of life at the Milwaukee Ale House, 1208 13th Avenue, Grafton, WI. In lieu of flowers memorials to Michael’s medical expenses are appreciated.