Michael John Held, 83, of Elcho, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on the morning of January 4, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Michael was born on May 17, 1940, in Milwaukee, to Gordon and Margaret Held. Michael, who was referred to as "Mick" attended primary school at St. Mary's and Lincoln School. Mick attended Menomonee Falls High School before enlisting as a "kiddee cruiser" in the United States Navy, in February of 1958, where he was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida. Mick was a SH3 Petty Officer, before landing his title of the ship's barber. Though, it wasn't until Mick's first patron, who just so happened to be the ship's captain, gave his seal of approval, that he received this title. It was in Jacksonville, that he met the love of his life, Elaine. He would attend many movies at the local theater where she worked, seeing many movies, he didn't care to see, just to see her. He gained her attention and asked her to attend the USO dance with him, she agreed, and the rest was history.
In 1959, the couple wed and remained so for 63 wonderful years. Michael was in the Suez Canal in Egypt aboard the USS Harold J. Ellison (DD-864) when he received a telegram from Elaine Held, with the news of their son, Joseph Michael Held being born on January 4, 1960. Mick was honorably discharged from the US Navy in March of 1961.
The young family relocated to Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin in 1961 where they raised their son, and eventually had three grandchildren. After retirement, Mick and Elaine bought a property in Elcho, in 1994, where they built their beautiful home together.
Mick was a loving son, husband, father, great-grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend. He was known for his fun and witty jokester-type personality. He was so mellow-tempered, and such a good-humored man, full of high spirits.
Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine Held; both of his parents, Gordon and Margaret Held; sister Judy (Donald) Grennier; brother, Richard (Norma) Held; and his great-grandson, Clayton.
He is survived by his son, Joseph (Mary) Held; grandchildren, Jamie Held, Michael (Jeanine) Held, and Jessica (Nick) Schmidt; great-grandchildren, Connor, Landon, Darrin, Mason, Alayna, Kynleigh, Cameron, Kyleigh, Paizleigh, and Oakleigh.
He is also survived by his brothers, David (Margarita) Held, Steve (Rita) Held, and Peter (Rosemary) Held; along with many other cherished relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 13 at 2:30 p.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home. Visitation from Saturday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Elcho veterans will provide military honors immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Michael's name may be directed to the American Cancer Society.
The family would like to thank Rainbow Hospice Care and the Elcho community for the countless acts of kindness they displayed.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Michael John Held, please visit our Tribute Store
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Antigo, WI 54409
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Antigo, WI 54409
Mike was a long time friend and a very good man. He will be missed.
Memorial Tree was purchased for the family of Michael John Held by Neil F. DeCloux.
Enjoy a simple reminder that Mick is here us all, alwaysWish we were there with you.Love,Connor and JamieMemorial Tree was purchased for the family of Michael John Held by Anonymous.
With deepest regrets we express our sympathy to Micks family. We are so sorry that we are unable to attend. Our prayers are with you all.
Butterfly Garden was purchased for the family of Michael John Held by Jim Durrance and Family.
With love and fond memories,may you rest in peace Mick
Red Florist's Choice was purchased for the family of Michael John Held by Aaron& Alayna Wilcott. 
A tree was also planted in memory of Michael John Held
Sending deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies; may his memory be a source of comfort and strength to all.
Star-Spangled was purchased for the family of Michael John Held by Anonymous.
I will truly miss Mick & his visits to my office (Cuts with C.L.A.S.S. & Lake Country Realty here in Elcho,. I met Mick & Elaine shortly after they moved to the area, Mick wasn't just a customer, but a friend as well! I enjoyed the pictures he shared of his great grandkids who called him (Grandpa Elcho) & of whom he was so proud of, as well as all the help Jessica had given him. He was as loved by all in the community is a great loss for our area. His friendly fantastic smile, wonderful disposition will truly be missed by all! Unfortunately I am unable to make it to the funeral, as we have a granddaughter's birthday party that day. May the Lord comfort in knowing that his love for you will never die!
Connie Brayton
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs to your family.
Freedom was purchased for the family of Michael John Held by Love, The Tolliver Family. A tree was also planted in memory of Michael John Held
My husband, Bob & I knew Mick & Elaine for many years. They were always smiling and so fun to spend time with. Mick was a wonderful grandfather to our niece Jamie, and fun great-grandfather to her children Connor and Alayna. My prayers and sympathy are with Mick's family. Take comfort knowing he is at peace now. Bob & Gwenn Petri
Mick was always a pleasure to chat with! What a pleasant demeanor he had. He will be missed during our visits to Pelican Lake❤️
Was a pleasure knowing Mick. Will be missed by many.
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