Michael “Mike” Frystak, 61

Michael “Mike” Frystak, 61, of Stevens Point, died peacefully on Nov. 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with atypical young-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Family members were by his side.

Frystak was born Jan. 14, 1963, in Portage, the son of Gerald and Karol (née Violetto) Frystak. He grew up in Montello, where he was known for his easygoing nature and formed lifelong friendships. A natural talent for restoring classic cars, passed down from his grandfather Joe and father, became one of Frystak’s passions. At age 14, he learned to restore a 1955 Chevy HardTop, a car he proudly owned for life. By high school, he was restoring cars for others—many of which still appear at car shows.

After graduating from Montello High School in 1982, Frystak earned an associate degree in automotive technology and became a master ASE automobile technician and a Chevrolet-certified technician. He applied his skills at the Portage County Highway Department, where he worked until his retirement in 2022.

Frystak met his future wife, Karen (née Klawitter), in high school, and the two began dating during his first year of college. They married on July 25, 1987, in Stevens Point, where they built a life together over 37 years of marriage. The couple raised three children and built a home on the Wisconsin River. His family was his pride, and he was devoted to making lasting memories with them. After losing their daughter Allison, Frystak’s heart remained affected by her absence, but his family takes comfort in knowing they are now reunited.

A “jack of all trades,” Frystak was skilled not only in automotive work but also in carpentry and concrete work. Known for his kindness and willingness to help others, he was often called upon by friends and family. Many of his favorite pastimes revolved around cars, family, and friends. His garage was often filled with country or 1980s music, and he enjoyed time on the water, especially at Anchor Bay, where he was known for enjoying a meal, music, and dancing. He also loved car shows, snowmobiling, hunting, camping, and Friday fish fries, always with Karen by his side.

Frystak is survived by his wife, Karen; daughter Brianna; son Nicholas; parents Gerald and Karol Frystak; brother Greg (Michele) Frystak; his childhood best friend, Tim “Toots” John; and his dog, Macie May. He is also survived by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Allison Joy; brothers-in-law Kim Klawitter and Chris Taber; father-in-law Henry Klawitter; mother-in-law Jelaine Koch; and grandparents Joseph and Virginia Violetto, and Walter and Frances Frystak.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, at Shuda Funeral Chapel, 3200 Stanley St., Stevens Point. Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service.

Online condolences can be shared at www.shudafuneral.com.