Michael Mckenna

Madison- Michael J. “Mike” McKenna, age 69, passed away on August 16, 2021, at UW Hospital with his beloved wife, Cynthia and children Courtney and Patrick by his side.

Mike was born on October 9, 1951, in Madison, WI to Dr. William and Elizabeth “Betsy” (Farnum) McKenna. He graduated from Edgewood High School (’69), UW Eau Claire (’73), and completed his MBA at Edgewood College (’98). Mike was united in marriage with his soulmate Cynthia Wagner on October 18, 1986, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Madison.

Mike spent his entire 38-year career at Oscar Mayer in Finance/Accounting, Community Giving, and Transportation. Following retirement, he continued his work as a Loaned Executive to The United Way of Dane County. Mike’s involvement in the community included serving on the Board of Directors for the Madison Symphony Orchestra, supporting UW Athletics, and promoting the mission of the Madison Sertoma Club that focused on hearing health.

One of Mike’s lifelong passions was golf. He excelled at the sport from a young age, from winning youth tournaments and playing competitively in high school and college, to becoming Nakoma Golf Club’s youngest men's champion at age 20. A highlight of his retirement was returning to his high school alma mater as Edgewood Boys’ Assistant Golf Coach. Mike combined his love of golf with his passion for service by mentoring youth from all backgrounds and serving on the Board of Directors for the First Tee of South-Central Wisconsin, a non-profit organization teaching life skills through the game of golf.

Those who knew Mike well recognized that he cherished his family more than anything. He loved spending time with them golfing, traveling, and cheering on the Badgers. He looked forward to his winter escapes with his wife walking on the beach and seeing old friends. Mike rekindled his competitive side with a friendly rivalry with his son on the golf course and at home on the ping pong table, even letting him win occasionally. Most recently, Mike’s dream of becoming a grandfather came true with the birth of his first grandchild in May. Although their time together was brief, he will always be watching over her. Mike was generous, thoughtful, and a constant source of positivity and strength. His family and friends will miss him more than words can say.

Mike is survived by his wife of nearly 35 years, Cynthia; his children Courtney (Bill) McCormick and Patrick McKenna; granddaughter Kaylee McCormick; brother Dr. Peter (Janey) McKenna; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 4-7 pm on Thursday, August 26 at Cress Funeral Home 3610 Speedway Rd. Madison. A second visitation will be on Friday August 27 at 9:30am followed by Mass at 11am at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish in Madison. There will be a live stream available to watch Mike’s service, the link can be found below.

Live Stream Link: https://youtu.be/tLtwo60Ok_w

Memorials can be made to a charity or organization of your choice, in memory of Mike.

“I can no longer see you with my eyes or touch you with my hands, but I will feel you in my heart forever.”

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

3610 Speedway Road

(608) 238-3434

Please share memories at

www.cressfuneralservice.com