Michael R. Schou, of Sauk City, passed away on November 29, 2025.  He was born in Chicago in 1948 to Evelyn (Tolemy) and Roy Schou, Mike was a proud Lane Tech graduate and a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam era. After his service, he began his insurance career, where he met his future wife, Maryellen. They married in 1972 and later settled in Sauk City, raising daughters Jennifer, Trish, and Carol.

Mike worked for many years at CUNA Mutual Insurance in Madison. He was well known throughout southern Wisconsin as "Santa," sharing joy with countless families through the Santa and the Elves Foundation. His kind heart and unmistakable Santa presence became a treasured part of many holiday seasons.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Maryellen; daughters Jennifer Stone, Trish (Dan) Hagstrom, and Carol (Tony) Gagnon; and grandchildren Willow and Max Stone, Kate and Molly Hagstrom, and Henry and Rose Gagnon. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Bonnie Zeledon; brother Steve Schou; and grandson Sam Hagstrom.

The family would like to thank Kevin Klingenmeyer, Agrace Hospice, Dr. John McAuliffe, and Meda Szlapka for their constant support and care for Mike and the family.

Mike's family will be having a Celebration of Friendship on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 2pm until 6pm at the Cedarberry Inn, 855 Phillips Blvd,Sauk City, WI 53583. Join us for food, music and memories. Chicago Cubs gear, Hawaiin shirts, and Christmas apparel encouraged.