- Visitation will take place on Monday, February 9th, 2026 from 9am-11am at OUR FATHERS LUTHERAN CHURCH (6025 S. Honey Creek Dr. Greenfield Wi, 53221).
- Funeral service will take place on Monday, February 9th, 2026 at 11am at OUR FATHERS LUTHERAN CHURCH (6025 S. Honey Creek Dr. Greenfield Wi, 53221).
- Burial will take place immediately following the funeral service on Monday, February 9th, 2026 at ARLINGTON PARK CEMETERY (4141 S. 27th St. Greenfield Wi, 53221)
Michael G. Borchardt
Went home to the Lord on February 1st, 2026, at the age of 77. Devoted husband of Arlene (nee Sterr) for 55 years. Loving father of Amber (Joel) Stroschin, Jennifer (Christopher) Hoedel, and Michael F. Borchardt. Proud grandpa of Gunther and Abigail Stroschin, Hayley, Emma, Claire, and Olivia Hoedel. He is preceded in death by his parents Franklin and Esther (nee Behrens).
He was a man whose life was fueled by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for both family and racing. For 50 years, he proudly owned and operated Borchardt Speed Automotive alongside his beloved wife, Arlene, building not just a business, but a legacy rooted in passion and perseverance. From a young age, his fascination with cars was evident. While still in high school, he worked at a local automotive dealership, beginning what would become a lifelong devotion to rebuilding engines, selling performance parts, and helping others chase their own automotive dreams.
His expertise and commitment to the racing world earned him induction into the Southeastern Wisconsin Short Track Hall of Fame, an honor that reflected decades of hands-on involvement and respect within the racing community. He was heavily involved with racing at both Hales Corners Speedway and Slinger Speedway, places where his knowledge, enthusiasm, and presence were deeply felt.
Family was always at the center of his life. One of his greatest sources of pride was the annual Father’s Day Car Show hosted through the shop. For 41 consecutive years, the entire family came together to welcome patrons and car enthusiasts to showcase their vehicles. This cherished tradition was more than an event—it was a celebration of family, community, and the passion that defined his life.
Beyond the racetrack and the shop, he was a faithful servant to his church, serving as a longtime usher at Our Father’s Lutheran Church. His faith guided him, and his quiet dedication reflected the values he lived by every day.
Through every endeavor, his wife Arlene stood faithfully by his side, a true partner in both business and life. Together, they built something lasting—marked by love, commitment, and shared purpose.
He will be remembered for his skilled hands, his generous heart, his unwavering work ethic, and the joy he found in doing what he loved alongside the people he loved most. His legacy lives on in his family, his community, and every engine he helped bring to life.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Our Fathers Lutheran Church are appreciated.
Click here to make a donation to Our Fathers Lutheran Church and School.
Michael was a very close friend for fifty-nine years. We played Sheep’s Head in his mom and dad’s basement. We drove to Wyler’s for adult beverages and recovered at George Webb’s on the way home. We worked together for Prestige Landscaping and, Peters’ Dodge, We were in each other’s weddings. We started families,and attended our children’s baptisms, birthday parties, and graduations.. We drove to and worked together at Schlieper’s Speed Shop–Arlene, Michael, and me. We raced on the street. Michael’s White 65 Impala screamed with its Tunnel Ram, three-finger Weber clutch, and its 4.88 rear-end. Together we learned quickly how to swap out blown clutches in his parent’s garage. Michael also helped swap out my new 68 Camaro’s Heavy Duty Three Speed for a Four Speed with a Hurst Shifter. We worked together at the Spur Gas Station. On Sunday’s, we would drive out to Pewaukee Lake to attend with our wives John Schlieper’s pig roasts. On Saturday nights we drank beer while the Borchardt’s race car competed at Hales Corners Speedway. With our wives, we started attending SEMA (Specialty Equipment Manufacturing Association) shows in Las Vegas. Following the passing of Michael’s father, Franklin; Michael wanted to demonstratively show his love for his father and started Borchardt’s Speed Automotive Father’s Day Car Shows.. To pull that off, we partnered with the 55, 56, and 57 Chevy Car Club of Greater Milwaukee. Michael and Arlene decided to keep the store closed during car shows so Michael could walk around and welcome the presence of exhibitors while Arlene worked the registration table. Michael shook the hand of every award winner. Michael bought a street rod, so we started attending the Back to the 50″s car show. Michael held Christmas parties at the store. Michael and Arlene would also host Sunday afternoon Volley Ball games with refreshments and food. Guess who cleaned up the general car show areas once everyone had left, yes Michael and Arlene along with family volunteers. We were all set to take the Las Vegas Fun Jet when a vehicle on the ramp hit an engine and a replacement aircraft had to be flown in. No problem, Michael and Arlene had an emergency first aid kit with them. We always checked out the car museum at Imperial Palace. Michael always had time to talk to customers. Michael would hone and sleeve blocks, and balance engiines. Michael had the foresight to build his own speed shop after the government mandated reduced compression and insurance companies charged risk insurance. Against all odds, Michael and Arlene pulled off Mission Impossible. Meet our Michael, you just did! .
Arlene and family,
I’m so very sorry about your loss of Michael. I always enjoyed time spent with you and him, listening to his stories and talking politics. He will be deeply missed.
So sorry I’m unable to attend his service. Will never forget what a great person, loving husband , father, and grandfather that he was.
I knew Mike for 30 plus years . Sponsored my race car for several years . Having good luck with the work that was done.we would talk over the counter I guess it’s called bench racing.. that was always fun. Kept in touch with him till he was no longer able to come out to the shop. Tought me tricks of the trade . And things I didn’t know. Sad to know the knowledge that went with Mike. He was a great guy and very helpful. Will be deeply missed.
i started buying parts from mike at the store on Loomis road, i was lucky enough to ride along a few times and take a car or two up to Bruce Mueller B+B RACE CARS and bring back half cars home, Bruce always had a stack of free drink tickets for the strip club! for many years i did the sound for the valve cover races at the fathers day car show (we are ford people so my kids had a big block ford valve cover ) for many years we camped out in the muffler shop parking lot so we would have a front row for the burn outs, one year my buddy James B who passed years ago went to a pay phone to call the cops to tell then that his cat was stuck in a tree! the cops left and it was burn out chaos! RIP MY brother! HUNTS!