Michael J. Knothe

Michael (Mike) John Knothe, Age 41, of La Crosse, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly on May 3rd, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. He was born May 15th, 1979 to Philip (Phil) and Theresa (Terry) Knothe in La Crosse. He graduated from Aquinas High School, class of 1997, and went on to study at UW Milwaukee earning a degree in Business Administration.

He married Aileen Pieterick in La Crosse on October 17th, 2009 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Jackson and Julia. Mike was a loving husband and father and a great friend to many. He was a naturally gifted athlete throughout his younger years and in college, and later was well known at the local pool halls and golf courses. Mike enjoyed playing piano alongside his daughter, family game nights, and sharing his love of golf with his son by spending time on the golf course. He was an avid Wisconsin sports fan, and loved cheering on his Packers at Lambeau Field. He enjoyed spreading laughter and was the life of the party wherever he went. He will be dearly missed.

Mike is survived by his wife, Aileen, and children, Jackson and Julia. He is further survived by his Mother, Theresa Knothe; brothers, Ross and Scott (Keiko) Knothe; Grandmother, Eileen Knothe; many aunts, uncles and cousins, many special friends, and his beloved dog Louie. He is preceded in death by his Father, Phil Knothe; Grandparents, Jack Knothe, Frank and Victoria Cox; Aunt, Virginia Braun; and a cousin, Conor Stein.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, May 8th, 2021 at St. James the Less Catholic Church on 1032 Caledonia Street. Friends may call from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass. Rev. James Altman will officiate, with entombment to be held in La Crosse Catholic Cemetery in La Crosse. Friends and family may call from 4-7 pm on Friday, May 7th at Blaschke & Schneider Funeral Home, 1501 West Ave. South, in La Crosse, with prayer vigil and rosary to be held at 7:00 PM. If you have a favorite story to share of Mike, we welcome you to share with everyone at the vigil.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred for Mike’s children. Donations may be made to https://www.gofundme.com/f/jackson-julia-memorial-fund?utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1&utm_medium=more&utm_source=customer

A special Thank You to Mike’s team of doctors and nurses at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse for their exceptional care and compassion for Mike & family.