Service Details
Linda M. Michel, 73, passed away in Ascension-All Saints on Thursday, November 19, 2020. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., on Tuesday, November 24th, at 6:30 p.m. with Rev. Thomas Vathappallil officiating. Visitation will be held in the church from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the Mass. The Mass will be live streamed, starting at 6:30 p.m. Due to the church requirements masks and social distancing will be enforced.
Live Streaming Linkhttps://youtu.be/QKwIFmOwP0o
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the West Racine Kiwanis Foundation, care of Barb Walker, 1141 N. Sunnyslope Dr. #204 Mt. Pleasant, WI, 53406, St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3191 Drexel Ave. Racine, WI 53403, or Donate Life WIsconsin P.O. Box 1095 Madison, WI 53701.
On Thursday, November 19, 2020, Linda Marie Michel (nee: Sustachek) joined her daughter, Lisa, and her mother, Marilyn, in what we can only assume was a festive, heartfelt heavenly reunion. Although those of us on earth were not ready for her to accept Lisa’s invitation, Linda battled hard on this earth and surely welcomed the joys, comfort, and peace of Heaven. Her husband of 46 years, James L. Michel, sat with her, prayed with her, and held her hand as she left this earth. He will greatly miss his best friend and all of the disapproving glances he received on a minute-by-minute basis. (Those of you who know him understand why.)
Linda was born on December 11, 1946. Her parents, Calvin and Marilyn Sustachek adored their little girl. Linda graduated from St. Catherine’s High School in 1965. Her life work was dedicated to raising her perfect children, who never did anything wrong. She also worked for the family business, Rasmussen Diamonds, and later worked for Century 21, as a real estate agent. Linda was a non-participating member of a local quilting club. Her contribution was in conversation and appreciation of the hard work done by real quilters. She was truly a member of the Catholic Women’s Club, and was honored to be a guest speaker for the group, on the subject of organ donation and the Donate Life organization.
Those not yet invited to this heavenly celebration include her husband Jim (Chico) Michel; her dad, Calvin Sustachek; her children, Denise of Los Angeles, CA, Joel (Christine) Michel, of Rochester, WI, Laura (Matthew) Hurtienne, of Racine, WI, and Jamie (Shauna) Michel, of Brooklyn, NY; her grandchildren, Peter John Hannes IV (Lauren McKeown), Michael Hannes (Rachel Miller), Cecily Hurtienne, Emmit Hurtienne, Ellie Michel, and Abbie Michel; Brothers, Bill (Kathy) Sustachek, Bob (Libby) Sustachek; in-laws, and proof of a strong Catholic family, Jack (Pat) Michel, Dennis (Peggy) Michel, JoAnne Michel, Don (Doreen) Michel, Julie Michel, and Mary Michel, along with multitudes of beloved nieces and nephews.
Linda was surely welcomed into heaven by her beloved grandma, Cecilia Aseltine, mom, Marilyn Sustachek; infant brother, Reid; daughter, Lisa (Michel) Hannes; Mother-in-law, Lorraine Michel; and Father-in-law, Leo Michel. Linda clearly did her own cooking and decorating for this party, with a little help from Lorraine, as the others were better off participating in a similar fashion that Linda participated in the quilting club. We expect Lisa laid out some ground rules when Linda arrived, to prepare her for her newfound awareness of the things her children have done, and continue to do…. all in perfection, of course. Although she’s left a great void for all of her loved ones, we know it will be filled by the example she provided in the way she lived her life.
Mary Manley and family says
There are no words to express my sympathy and sadness. Linda was my big sister. I don’t know how I would have made it through some parts of my life without her. She has endured way more than anyone should have to. Luckily we have our faith and knowing she is reunited with loved ones brings some peace. Knowing Lisa is making her laugh brings some comfort. Prayers and Love.
Don Scott says
Dear Jim and Family,
Such a shock…such a loss. Remembering Linda’s beautiful soul and smile.
Our deepest condolences.
Don and Kathy
Robert and Barbara Yust says
We are so sorry for your loss. There are no words of comfort for you, we are sure. Our deepest condolences, and prayers for you, and the family.
Jim and Cookie Hyduke says
Her smile lit up a room with an engaging laugh, it was a treat to know her. She will be missed. Our sincere condolences to Jim and family.
Bill & Laurel Celeste says
Such a lovely and generous spirit in a person that was family to us. She has left a large emptiness that will be filled by her loving example of life.
Our deepest sympathies to the entire family. With much love
Paul & Kathy Holley says
Jim and family – We are so sorry for your loss Please know that you’re in our prayers.
Glenn and Marilyn says
Dear Jim and Family,
We are so sorry to hear the loss of your wife Linda! We will keep you and your family in our prayers!
Our deepest condolences
Lou Lesperance says
So sad to hear of Linda’s passing. She had the best sense of humor and laugh of all of my sister’s high school friends. She was known to me as Stumps (and other names..lol). To her family…I know she is smiling onto you and wants you to hold her memory to your hearts. ❤️
Cindy Maragos says
We are so saddened to hear about Linda’s passing and are sending thoughts and prayers for you at this difficult time. May her memory always be sweet. Love, Cindy and Nick
Heather (Mathson) Gregory says
Mr Michel and Family
I am so deeply sorry to read about Mrs Michel. I know Mom and Dad welcomed het to Heaven with open arms.
My heart goes out to all of you during this horrific time.
Love
Heather (Mathson) Gregory
Patty Carl's Fuhrman says
Dear Jimmy & Family,
We go way back as neighbors and school-mate friends. Life kept us reuniting and seeing one another through reunions and St. Lucy’s. We’ve stayed in touch on Facebook and Lee & I followed Lisa’s journey because we cared. Linda always lit up when we’d see her, and her gift to us was her full-face broad instant smile when her eyes met ours! Our hearts hurt along with yours, but I know, as a Mother, she is at God’s eternal peace with Lisa. May God bless you in your sorrow and may you find comfort in the joyous arms of those who love you! We do…
Patty and Lee
Fuhrman
Kathy Saunders Simanek says
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Michel and Sustachek family.
I know she is welcomed into heaven by many open arms.
Steve & Rita Klinkhammer says
Happy thoughts and good memories to you and your family. And to all that knew Linda.
May we all find peace in these difficult times🙏
Jenny Alton and family says
Aunt Linda, what a beautiful, wonderful woman!! She will be missed!! Love and prayers to you all!!
Sarah Strommen says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Linda was not only a lifelong neighbor, but a second mother to me. She was always there and involved in the biggest moments of my life, graduations, wedding, and children. She even would come over to hold the babies so I could get a much needed nap. Anyone that knows Linda, knows she was somewhat of a baby whisperer and always knew just what to do. She was the “Master Swaddler.”
Sending my deepest condolences and prayers.
David Litrenta says
GOD…said to Linda …you have suffered enough…it is time to come home and be with your heavenly family and you will find joy and happiness…
John R. Dingman Sr. says
Jim,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I am praying for you!!!
John
Kent Mayes says
Sorry to hear of your loss!
Kristi Widmar says
So many great memories of Aunt Linda from all our family gatherings, and the MANY sleepovers we had as kids. I was also so very fortunate to know her as a friend and co-worker later in my life. I always enjoyed working on the many projects together with her – she was so creative, and organized and a LOT of fun! I’m blessed to have those very fond memories of her. I love you my family. You are all in my prayers.
Erich, Carrie, Sean and Alec says
Aunt Linda was such a wonderful person who will be greatly missed. We are so sorry. Love and hugs from Iowa.
Diana Lesnjak says
Jim, my heart is with you as you mourn and as you celebrate your beloved Linda. I know you will find support as your family comes together, and I hope you can find peace knowing she is safe in the arms of the Lord. Jon died at Christmastime; and I have always been glad that I am with family every year his anniversary comes around. Perhaps you will feel the same way at future Thanksgiving times, that family will always be near to raise a glass and to remember this lovely woman with great thanks for her time with you.
Larry Holterman says
Jim, we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Larry and Amy Holterman
Paul and Marcia Miller says
We are so very sorry to hear of yet another loss for your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you all in your loss.
Cody Kordus says
Aunt Linda was one of the best teachers for me in driving advice and just being a great person. She will be dearly missed but I know that she was granted Eternal Life, and, that she is now with her daughter Lisa and countless others. Aunt Linda, I will really miss Coming over like back before the virus started. You sure had a welcoming presence and I can’t wait to feel it again someday! God Bless You and see you again someday!!
Love your nephew, Cody.
Cathy (Orth) LaPoint says
A phrase to share: “You OWN your memories”. Whatever way we remember Linda is a personal experience. She lived her life in the best possible ways and now we are fortunate to have a place close to our heart to encapsulate her memory. God bless her and shine upon her. With sympathy and prayers.
Craig & Jill Borgardt says
Jim & family,
So sorry to hear about Linda’s passing. I always enjoyed being around her. May God give you His peace and comfort at this difficult time.
Pamela Strege-Mattes says
Linda was certainly one of the nicest people that I have crossed paths with in my life. God Bless her family and bring them comfort.
My sympathy.
Mike & Lynn O'Brien, Scottsdale AZ says
Sorry to hear about Linda. We always enjoyed our times together. Those were some parties!
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.
Terri Hilgers Londre says
I am truly sorry for your loss. Linda and I were friends as children and enjoyed some good times at Holy Name and St. Catherine’s. I’m sure her party will be a huge hit as she always wanted everyone to have a good time. Love the obit and she would laugh I’m sure.
Julie Schliesmann Peterson says
So sorry to see that Linda has gone to eternal life and joined many of our “Best Alive ’65” classmates. Also, my son, Cary. Would always enjoy seeing the 2 of you on occasion around town. You are fortunate to have such large families to support you. Blessings to you, Jim. With sympathy.
Mary Ellen Zickus says
Please accept my deepest sympathy. Another loss is so difficult. God knew she needed rest. Deepest sympathy to you and Family. Prayers are with you.
Cousin Bill says
Jim, sorry for your loss. Remember, love lives on forever
Tracy Kutch says
My heart hurts for you all. Linda was amazing and her perfect daughter Lisa was her mini me. May God’s grace comfort you. Much love to you all.
Carolyn Gibson says
I am so sorry to hear of Linda’s passing. My sincere sympathy to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Carolyn Gibson says
Jim, I am so sorry to hear about Linda’s passing. My sincere sympathy to you and your family! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Kimberly Gerlach says
So sorry for your loss, Jim. Forty-six years is a long time to be used to someone always with you… m
My thoughts are with you. Kim Gerlach
Todd and Terry Moore says
Jim and family,
So sorry to hear about Linda, she was a great lady and will be missed by all.
Remember Jim, God only takes the best.
Jim and Carol May says
Jim, so sorry to learn of Linda’s passing. Our prayers are with you and your family. God bless.
Jeff and DeeDee Koleske says
Our sincere condolences to Jim and family. We were blessed to have known Linda.
Patty michel says
Sorry for your loss
Cheryl & Bill Wood says
Dear Jim, we are so sorry to hear of Linda’s passing. We’re sure Lisa was waiting for her with open arms. Wishing you peace and strength during this time.
David Fogarty says
Jim,
Lynn and I are sending you our deepest sympathy at the loss of your beloved Linda. We pray that you will find peace through God’s grace.
Dave
Tom and Jackie Oettinger says
Our sympathy to you Jim and your family. Know God is with you all.
Thomas Behrens and Family says
Our Lord has special places for wonderful people. And you and Lisa are welcomed with open arms. Our deepest sympathy to all her passing has impacted. God bless and prayers are with you all.
Catherine (Angel) Kusters & Family says
Dear Mr. Michel and family,
We are so sorry for to hear about Mrs. Michel’s passing. We are praying hard for you all right now and know that her kindness and love will continue on through you. She was the absolute sweetest. Hugs to you all!
Dave and Barb Rudin says
Jim, So sorry about Linda. I always enjoyed seeing her at St. Lucy’s. Always a smile on her face.
Elizabeth (Angel) Gardon says
I am forever blessed to have known Mrs. Michel. My memories of her will always be filled with her warmth, smile and kindness! She made me feel so happy – just being in her presence.
Sending lots of love and prayers to the Michel Family!
Xoxo
Tom and Mandy Kellogg says
So sorry for your lost. Your family is in our prayers.
Donna Cornelius says
Jim I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your wife Linda! My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time!
Renee Benjamin says
We are so sorry to hear of Linda passing. Please accept our sincere condolences to you, Jim, and all of your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Dave and Renee Benjamin
Pat Dahl says
My sympathy to the family. I worked with Lisa at the courthouse. I can only imagine the party that is happening in heaven as the reunion begins. May your memories keep you smiling.