Myron “Mike” Volkmann
January 16, 1948 – August 29, 2026
Myron “Mike” Volkmann, of Three Lakes, Wisconsin, met his Lord and Savior on August 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Mike was born on January 16, 1948, to the
late Ervin Sr. and Bertha Buell Volkmann. He attended school in Phelps and later graduated
from Elcho High School.
On December 31, 1966, Mike married the love of his life, Barbara Jean Borne. Together, they spent nearly 60 years building a life centered around faith, family, and service to others. Throughout their marriage, Mike and Barb shared many seasons of life together, including teaching, coaching, selling real estate, and, most importantly to Mike, preaching the Gospel. In the early years after graduating from college, Mike taught school in Eagle River and then continued to teach sixth grade in Phelps, where he had the privilege of encouraging and guiding countless young people. Teaching was more than simply a profession to Mike—it was an opportunity to invest in the lives of his students and encourage them until his retirement in 2003.
Mike’s greatest passion was preaching and teaching the Bible and sharing the Gospel with others. His faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life, and he had a genuine desire for everyone he met to know the hope, grace, and love found in Christ. He faithfully served the Lord in many ways, including leading numerous home Bible studies and pastoring in several churches. He counted it a privilege to open God’s Word, teach others about Jesus and encourage people in their faith. He faithfully served the Lord and spent his life pointing others toward Him.
While his faith was at the center of his life, Mike also cherished his family, the outdoors, and sports. He especially loved basketball. He rarely missed a Three Lakes basketball game and could almost always be found in his usual seat on the bench-side corner, cheering on the team. He was known for being there to fist-bump the players before they headed into the locker room, a small gesture that meant so much and became part of who he was to generations of players. Mike especially treasured watching his younger grandchildren play soccer. He loved being there on the sidelines, cheering them on and sharing in their accomplishments and the simple joy of watching them grow. Some of his favorite memories were also made working alongside his family on carpentry projects. He enjoyed building and creating together, but even more, he treasured the time spent side-by-side with the people he loved. Mike’s greatest earthly joy was his family.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Barbara “Barb”; their sons, Chris (Lisa) and Bradley (Staci); and his grandchildren, Eli (Maddie), Naomi (Ethan) Spears, Tobias, and Malakai. Brothers, John Sr., Dan and sister, Liesel; and many nephews and nieces. He will also be remembered by countless friends, former students, athletes, church members, and others whose lives he touched through his teaching, coaching, ministry, and friendship.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin Sr. and Bertha Volkmann; and his brothers, Carl Volkmann and Ervin “Erv” Jr. Volkmann.
The words Mike spent a lifetime teaching others now bring comfort to those who loved him: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23 Mike finished his earthly race and entered his eternal home. His family takes comfort in knowing that this is not goodbye, but until we meet again.
We welcome you to join us Saturday, October 3, 2026, 11 a.m.– 3:30 p.m. Sugar Camp Town Hall 4059 Camp Four Road, Rhinelander, WI 54501 visitation 11 – 3:30 / service 3:30 Dessert will be offered.
Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com
