Michael William Schwarz

Michael “Ugly” William Schwarz, age 74, a resident of Phillips, WI, passed away at his home Saturday, July 4, 2026. He was born on December 7, 1951, in Waukesha, WI, to parents Harvey and Mardell Schwarz. He attended Waukesha South High School. He worked for Wisconsin Bell/AT&T running line for them. He married the love of his life Bonnie Marie Kulik on April 11, 1970.

Mike enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling, and collecting Hamm’s memorabilia. He loved volunteering with the Special Olympics.

Mike was the kind of guy who filled up any room he walked into. The life of the party with a Big personality and zero fear of the spotlight. He loved nothing more than hosting friends at the bar he built himself right in his home. Rough around the edges, he'd let you call him “Ugly” if you really knew him, but you'd better not try it if you didn't. He had the biggest heart and a wealth of hands-on knowledge. He built his own home and could tackle just about anything electrical, carpentry, mechanical, hunting, or guns. Mike was always ready to jump in and help with any project, teach what he knew, or sit with you when you had a problem. He'd make you laugh, lift your spirits, and figure a way forward.

Whether bowling, golfing, riding his motorcycle or doing firewood, Mike lived fully and left a mark. You didn't forget Mike once you met him. He carried his love for toys and gadgets everywhere, often with a Tasmanian Devil close by. He had a special soft spot for helping people with disabilities. He was simply unforgettable.

As a husband, Mike was devoted and faithful for decades. A steady rock and provider who stood strong beside Bonnie. He often joked, “You can pick your nose, or you can pick your wife,” and there was no doubt he had chosen well.

Together they shared an unbreakable bond filled with love, trust and laughter, chasing big dreams and taking countless road trips aboard the Honda and the Harley. Mike and Bonnie's adventures created a lifetime of memories, proving that their partnership was as solid as it was full of joy.

Mike loved his daughter Melanie more than anything in this world. She was his greatest pride, his brightest light, and the one thing that could always bring a huge smile to his face. He was her anchor, steady, fiercely protective, and full of quiet compassion. You could see the depth of his love without him ever having to say it. He lit up when talking about her and would take days of careful preparation to make her visits perfect. Melanie was his heart, plain and simple.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife: Bonnie; daughter: Melanie (Brian) Schwab; siblings: Kathleen, Jane; many nieces, nephews; friends: Robin, Dennis, Geno, Kenny, Barbie, and many more family and friends.

Bonnie and Melanie want to sincerely thank Robin for creating these thoughtful memories of Mike. When Melanie read it the first time, she cried and thought it was perfect and later read it to Bonnie, who cried and said Robin “nailed it”. They decided together that it would make the right obit for Mike.

Private family services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Mike’s honor can be made to the Special Olympics.