Mike "Jov" Giovanoni

Mike “Jov” Giovanoni, 50, of Schofield, WI, passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital with his big sister holding his hand, while he entered the embrace of his angel mother in heaven, on Saturday, February 17, 2024.

Mike attended Wausau West High School and worked as a jack of all trades. Under his tough exterior he had the biggest heart; his biggest passion was helping people. Mike had a great sense of humor, wise comebacks and knowledge out of this world.

He is survived by his father, Joseph Giovanoni; sister, Gina (Jeremy) Strasser; three nephews who he adored, Christopher (Medgine), Anthony, and Ryan; three step-nephews and nieces, Damian, Desiree, and Sabrina Strasser; Noah Johnson, was like a son to Mike; his best friend, Kaine Kelch who was like a brother to him.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Joyce Giovanoni.

Mike was adopted as a baby and in adulthood was able to find and reconnect with his birth mother, Donna Vetterkind, who survives along with his biological family with whom he formed a very special relationship.  His half-siblings, Jay Searles, Kevin and Vince Vetterkind, and Stacy Schepp. Mike was unable to meet his birth father as he had passed away, but Mike was fortunate to meet his two half-brothers, Dustin and Craig, forming a special relationship with Dustin.

A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Mount Olive Lutheran Church (Alderson Street entrance), 6205 Alderson Street, Schofield. Visitation is 3-4 p.m. with the celebration starting at 4:15 p.m. until 7 p.m. Packer clothes and flannels are highly encouraged.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Marathon County Humane Society (to sponsor pet adoption fees in Mike’s name) or Monk Botanical Gardens. The family is asking that those attending, if they wish, please bring a pet supply to be donated to the Marathon County Humane Society in Mike’s name.

The family would like to extend their thanks to Dr. Clements, Dr. Nichols and Dr Phillipson, nursing staff on IMC at Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Amy Kurth, NP for their passionate and heartfelt care of our son and brother. You gave him what we asked, a fighting chance.

“Mike, we are devastated that you left us this soon as we were not ready to let you go. I have been your big sister for almost all my life, it’s all I have ever known, I do not know how to be an only child and do this without you.  I just take comfort that you are with mom. I will see you again, when I see you on the other side, until then, Fly High my brother.” ~Gina