Michael Roger Freund

Michael Roger Freund, 60, of Rhinelander, passed away peacefully at his home on July 26, 2025, surrounded by love. Born on May 29, 1965, in Rhinelander, Michael was a hometown boy through and through, one whose roots ran deep and whose impact reached far beyond.

Michael proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before returning home to Wisconsin, where he built a successful career at Printpack. Starting from the ground floor and working his way up to plant trainer, he earned not only respect but lifelong friendships along the way.

To know Mike was to smile. He was the kind of man who could brighten a room just by walking into it. Stubborn in the best ways, endlessly generous, and always ready with a joke or a helping hand. His heart of gold was matched only by his deep devotion to the people he loved.

An avid outdoorsman, Mike found joy in the stillness of a deer stand and the tug of a walleye on the line. He cherished his trips to Nebraska with his father, Roger, where he spent time with his “second family” Brian, Shelly, Taylor, Tyler, and the entire Nebraska gang. Whether he was in the woods, at a ball game, or simply sharing a beer and a story, Mike lived life with passion and presence.

Some of his favorite memories were made on little adventures with his boys. Badger games, Packers Sundays, Brewers outings, waterpark weekends, and the kind of road trips that turn into lifelong stories. Through every moment, big or small, he was teaching by example: work hard, love gently, and be the kind of man you can be proud of.

Michael will be remembered most for his soft heart, his contagious smile, and the passion he poured into everything he held dear. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and love. A legacy that lives on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

Mike is survived by his sons Michael (Elizabeth) Freund and Nicholas Freund, his grandchildren Dylan, Millee, Aria, Carter and Caleb, his dad Roger (Mary Jo) Freund, his sister Barbara (Ronald “Buzz”) Dickison, his brother Gary Freund, nieces, nephews, other family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his mom Jean Freund.

Visitation for Mike will be held on Friday, Aug. 15 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Carlson Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held on Friday, Aug. 15, at noon at the Northwoods National Cemetery. Interment will be in the Northwoods National Cemetery. You may leave your private condolences for the Freund family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home, 715-369-1414, is serving the Freund family.