Michael E. Dobratz, age 66, of the Town of Red Springs, passed away on Friday, November 29, 2019 at St. Luke’s Medical Center – Milwaukee, surrounded by his family. Michael was born on June 15, 1953 in Shawano, to the late Eugene and Arlene (Finke) Dobratz. Michael was united in marriage to Katharina Sperberg on August 31, 1984 at St. Paul Stony Hill – Shawano. Early on in life Michael worked with Terry Kralovetz doing auctions and remodeling older homes. Michael continued to work with Terry on auto body work until he started Belle Plane Auto, which he owned and operated successfully for 19 years. During this time he also worked for the U. S. Postal service, where he retired in 2015 after 38 years. Michael received the 1 million mile award and 29 years of safe driving award during his time at the post office. Michael was known to be a handyman, and always on the move. He enjoyed being outside, hunting, helping out his sons and most of all spending time with his grandson.
Michael is survived by: his wife, Kathy; sons Tyler (Britney) Dobratz of Clintonville and David (Tracy) Winter of Gresham; grandson, Kip Michael; siblings, Mark (Joan) and Matt (Annie) Dobratz. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by: his parents, Eugene and Arlene, parents-in-law, Lyle and Eleonore Long, and his brother-in-law, Norman (Butch) Sperberg.
A memorial service for Michael will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, December 6, 2019, at St. Paul Lutheran Church Stony Hill with Rev. John Eyer officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
