Mike “MJ” Jackson, age 54 of Marathon, passed away on Friday, April 6, 2018 at the William S. Middleton Veteran’s Hospital in Madison, following multiple years of health struggles stemming from a heart transplant that he had 24 years ago.  He fought his battle so hard, but couldn’t beat this one.

He was born on January 3, 1964 in Wausau, the son of the late Gerald and Nancy (Burke) Jackson.  He was a graduate of Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School, class of 1983.  He served his country in the US Navy from 1983-1987, where he was deployed on the USS Deyo to multiple Caribbean locations.

MJ was a jack of all trades, and took pride in every job he ever had.  He easily made many life-long friends with his quick wit and great sense of humor, which he will always be remembered for.

Survivors include his sister, Kay (John) Balzano of San Antonio, TX; his maternal grandmother, Dorothy Burke of Chippewa Falls; niece, Miranda Jackson of Eau Claire; nephew, Jack Balzano, TX; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Jane Jackson, and brother, Dan Jackson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 27, 2018 at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, from 4:00 until 8:00 PM.  Military honors will be conducted at 5:00 PM at the funeral home.   Graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Cemetery in Boyd, WI.

The family would like to thank the staff of the William S. Middleton Veteran’s Hospital in Madison for the care that they gave to Mike.