Michael Theo Sr.

MADISON – Michael C. Theo, Sr. passed away at home and at peace, on Thursday, October 14, 2021.  He was 89 years old.

Mike was born on June 17, 1932 in Limassol, Cyprus, to parents Christos and Aglaia Theodossiades.  He made his way to America at the age of 19, moving to Madison where his sister Helen (Adams) lived and where he would become a leader in the Greek-American community and a “Founding Father” of Madison’s Assumption Greek Orthodox Church.  Mike became a master machinist, specializing in custom-design and refurbishing of machinery large and small.  He enjoyed his craft and worked well into his 70’s.

Mike is survived by his wife of 67 years and true love of his life, Gisela, who emigrated to America from Germany.  They met taking English classes at Madison Area Technical College.   He is also survived by his 5 children: Christos (Lisa) Theo; Michael (Laki) (Sheryl) Theo; Nicki Theo; Tina (Corey) Helser; Peter (Carol) Theo; 10 grandchildren:  Alexander, Analia, Andrea, Antony, Christos, James, Joseph, Marie, Michael, Nicholas), and 4 great grandchildren: Andreas, Evelyn; Gracelyn and Mia.

Mike loved life and was always first on the dance floor when “Zorba the Greek” played - or any other Greek music for that matter!  Mike and Gisela took great pride in realizing their dream of creating a large and growing family in America.  His legacy of hard work, optimism, love for family, and (like Zorba) living life to the fullest, will live forever in his children and their children’s children.

It is now time to rest “Papouli.”  You will be with us forever.

A celebration of Mike’s life will begin with a visitation at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church (11 North Seventh Street, Madison) from 9:00-10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 21, 2021, followed immediately by funeral services.  Burial services will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery (1 Speedway Road, Madison).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the thoughtful and gifted staff of Agrace HospiceCare, 5395 E. Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg, WI  53711 or www.agrace.org