• Memorial Visitation
  • Friday, September 4^th, at Heritage Funeral Homes (16880 W. National Ave. New Berlin) from 3-6pm
• Sharing of Stories and Memories
  • Friday, September 4^th, at Heritage Funeral Homes (16880 W. National Ave. New Berlin) starting at 6pm

Michael C. Ernst

Michael C. Ernst, age 53, passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2026. While his passing leaves an unimaginable emptiness for his family, friends, students, and the many people whose lives he touched, Michael leaves behind a lifetime of love, memories, and a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

Michael was, above all else, a family man. For 19 years, he shared his life with his beloved wife, Donna (nee Davis), who was not only his wife, but his best friend and his one and only. Together, they built a life centered around the people and things that mattered most. Their sons, Brayden and Rylan, were Michael’s world. He was incredibly proud of both of them and treasured every moment he was able to spend by their side. He was also a devoted fur-dad to Remi, who held a special place in his heart.

Michael’s love for his family was evident in everything he did. His mother stated that from a very young age, Michael always wanted a family of his own, and he grew into exactly the kind of husband and father he had dreamed of becoming. He was, without question, one of the best dads anyone could ask for. He was also proudly a “mama’s boy,” sharing a deep and special love for his mother that remained throughout his life.

For 30 years, Michael dedicated himself to the Muskego-Norway School District. He was a great teacher who cared deeply about his students. He was loved by those he taught and remembered by many long after they left his classroom. His influence reached far beyond lessons and assignments. Michael had a way of making people feel cared for, and the impression he left on his students is part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Michael’s love of soccer became another defining part of his life. For 12 years, he was involved with the SC Wave Soccer Club, where he truly embodied the meaning of being a “Soccer Dad.” Whether it was soccer or futsal with Rylan, Michael was happiest when he was watching, supporting, encouraging, and simply being there for his son. The soccer community became an important part of his extended family, and many of the friendships he made through the Muskego-Norway School District and SC Wave meant so much to him.

Michael also knew how to enjoy the simple things in life. He loved being outside, surrounded by nature, and could happily spend time sitting and watching the birds. He enjoyed horror movies and attending metal concerts with Brayden, creating the kinds of memories that his son will carry with him forever. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, watching a movie, listening to music, or simply sitting outside, Michael found joy in being present with the people he loved.

Those who knew Michael will remember his humility and the way he always seemed more concerned about everyone else than himself. He had a generous heart and a quiet way of caring for people. He never needed recognition for the things he did. He simply loved his family, cared about his students and friends, and showed up for the people who mattered to him.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; his sons, Brayden and Rylan; and his fur-daughter, Remi. He is further survived by his mother Barbara (nee LaCanne) Ernst; his mother-in-law, Jacquelyn (nee Cvetan) Davis; his brother, David (Ericka) Ernst; brothers-in-law, Joel Davis, Matthew (Melissa) Davis, and Jon (Rachel) Davis; sister-in-law, Maggie (Mark) Watson; and his nieces and nephews, Xavier and Xanthe Ernst, Aron Davis, Dominic Davis, Kayla Davis, Charlie Davis, and Elijah Davis. He is also survived by countless dear friends, including those from the Muskego-Norway School District and SC Wave Soccer Club, who will feel his absence deeply.

Michael was preceded in death by his father William Ernst and his father-in-law Donald Davis.

There are some people who leave an impression wherever they go. Michael was one of those people. He was a loving husband, an incredible father, a devoted son, a caring brother and uncle, a dedicated teacher, and a loyal friend. He gave so much of himself to the people around him, often without ever asking for anything in return.

He will be deeply missed by the people who loved him, by the students who remember him, by the friends who stood beside him, and by the countless people who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, September 4^th, at Heritage Funeral Homes (16880 W. National Ave. New Berlin). A memorial visitation will start at 3pm followed by a time to share stories and memories at 6pm.  –  In honor of Mike, his family invites everyone to wear purple, a color that holds special meaning in his memory. Let’s fill the room with purple as we celebrate the life of a man who brought so much love and joy to those around him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are greatly appreciated.