Michael William Cantwell

Michael William Cantwell

“Big Mike”

Michael William Cantwell, age 86, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife of 64 years, his daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. Mike was the oldest of ten children, born to William and Florence (Lacke) Cantwell on June 4, 1939, in Madison, Wisconsin.

Mike graduated from Edgewood High School in 1957, excelling in basketball and earning a track scholarship to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. While attending UW–Madison, Mike worked full-time at the Brat Haus, was a proud member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, and served in ROTC.

In 1961, Mike graduated with a degree in Finance. He married his 5th-grade sweetheart, Jeanette (Radl), and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving for four years. After his military service, Mike and Jeanette returned to Madison with their two daughters, Patty and Joni, and their family grew with the addition of Susie and Kathy.

Mike accepted a position with Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company as a Chartered Life Underwriter, receiving numerous recognitions of meritorious achievement from 1965–1972. After leaving the insurance industry, Mike pursued other career endeavors. In retirement, he truly enjoyed working as a golf ranger at Bishop’s Bay Country Club.

One of Mike’s greatest passions in life was golf. He loved sharing his knowledge of the game, and his family was so proud of his win at the 1975 Madison Public Links Golf Tournament. Throughout the years, Mike could often be found at area golf courses, grabbing a Coke and conversation at the Village Bar, and avidly following sports. Mike’s greatest pride was his wife, Jeanette, his four daughters, sons-in-law, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He especially loved Jeanette’s singing, supporting his daughters with humorous advice, and following his grandchildren’s successes. He was very proud of the Cantwell name and enjoyed keeping up with his siblings, nieces, and nephews.

Anyone who knew our dad knew he was not a “generic man.” He had strong opinions and enjoyed the chance to share them. We thank him for teaching us a sense of humor, a gritty edge, a firm handshake, and resiliency.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Patty; and his siblings Daniel (“Banjo”), Roger, Tom, Jeff, Stephen, and Connie.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Jeanette; daughters Joni (Mark), Susie (John), and Kathy (Rich); grandchildren Dane (Andrea), Easton, Hannah, Jenna, and Quinn; great-grandchildren Lennon and Vaughn; siblings Patrick, Edward (Daylene), and Beverly (Tom); and many nieces and nephews.

“Throughout life, moments are captured where we are proud of our sisters and brothers,

our sons and daughters, our nieces and nephews, our grandchildren and great-grandchildren,

and our parents. These moments stand out in our hearts and never fade. Oftentimes, they are

the very acts that inspire us to use our talents and become proud of ourselves.”

— J. Cantwell

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

First Tee — South Central Wisconsin Agrace Hospice

819 Royal Avenue 5395 East Cheryl Parkway Madison, WI 53713 Madison, WI 53711 https://firstteescw.org/ways-to-give/ https://www.agrace.org/donate/donate-today/

Honoring Mike’s wishes, a private service will be held with immediate family. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date.

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406