Michael "Mike" A. Pongratz, age 55, of Poy Sippi, died unexpectedly Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton. He was born March 24, 1954, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, the son of George L. and Viola Roseno Pongratz. He had worked for many years at Neenah Foundry as a fork lift driver. Mike was known affectionately as the Silver Fox at the Four Corners Restaurant. He enjoyed farming, bowling, and racing up the stairs at work with Jesse.

Mike is dearly loved and will be missed by his daughters, Wendy Pongratz of Oshkosh and Christy Pongratz of Wautoma; one grandson, Brady, who is 8 years old, one granddaughter, Jamie, who is 23 months old; brothers and sisters, George III (Darlene) Pongratz of Sherry, WI; David Pongratz of Oshkosh, Georgiana Collins of Oshkosh, Jerome (Sharon) Pongratz of Omro, Caroline (Steve) Hobbs of Oshkosh, Karen (Rick) Beyer of Indiana, and Lester (Jane) Pongratz of Borth; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, James; and nephew, Daniel.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 29, 2009, at the funeral home in Omro from 4:00 P.M. until the time of the Funeral Service at 7:00 P.M. with Rev. Marvin Ahlborn officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Omro Cemetery. A memorial is being established.

The family would like to thank St. Elizabeth's Hospital staff, especially the nurses on 2 South and ICU, and all the family and friends who have been so loving during this difficult time.