Michael :Mike" Patrick Schmudlach, "Hųųc sgaa"(native name)

I met Mike when I repatriated a Beaded Bandolier Bag to Tom Jones. Mike invited me to his studio to see his collection of hand made HoChunk regalia. Even though I showed up one day early Mike generously showed me his fabulous collection HoChunk Black Ash baskets and regalia. Mike also installed a fabulous exhibit of beaded Bandolier bags at a coffee shop in Oregon, WI.

Sadly, I have not seen Mike in a number of years and I am very sorry to hear of his passing. I attended a meeting in Oregon for many years that Mike was a big part of. I always enjoyed his kindness and sense of humor and the wisdom he shared. You all have my deepest sympathy. Sincerely, Barb Kopenski

I got to know Mike through the International Harvester Collectors Club and attended more tractor shows and meetings with him than I could possibly count. He co- chaired the 2009 IH Red Power Round Up in Madison and he attacked any task that he chose with unbridled passion. We will miss him deeply...Mark (Sneaky) Peters, Menasha, WI

Mike was adopted by my family as the fourth Crocker boy- If not at school he was hanging at our house on Vilas Circle. He and I shared so many years of adventure, through Boy Scouts He was in Troop 11 - me in Troop 2 - we traveled on Amtrak to Sand Point, Idaho for the 1973 jamboree where we were archery instructors, hiked the Elroy to Sparta 20 mile trail and spent many a summer on the Castle Rock Flowage at summer camp. It was in Scouts where Mike became a member of the Order of the Arrow and this is when he fell in love with the Native American culture and he fully embraced his roll as a dancer - designing and assembling both a traditional woodland and fancy dancer costume resplendent with his own handcrafted beadwork and bustle design. This time in Mike’s life would set up a life long journey with the Winnebago now HoChunk people...Ultimately leading to authoring a coffee table book about his adopted family- their history and story. As a master carpenter and contractor he designed and built many homes around the Dane county area. Mike loved the outdoors and he bought his farm with his wife Linda and assembled one of the most impressive collection of International Harvester tractors and trucks in the world. He traveled globally lecturing about this machinery. He planted his corn, gourds and vegetables and shared his bounty with neighbors. Mike was loyal, funny, spontaneous and a man who lived his life to the fullest. He was loved by many families for his generosity and graciousness. As perhaps one of his oldest and closest friends and brother I will miss him with my heart. I know he was welcomed by his family who proceeded him home. Mike is at peace, perfect and now a saint who will always be on my shoulder. Love ya Mikey! See you someday at the heavenly 49er!!!

Such a good man! I enjoyed serving on the Board of Curators of the Historical Society with Mike. He was always thoughtful, engaged and productive. We shared many good laughs. I am so sorry he has left us so soon.

My condolences to Linda and family. He spoke many times of his love and respect for Linda. He was generous to so many, sharing his knowledge and interest of his many passions. Straight forward and honest, he was well respected. He lived life to the fullest. I will always remember him for sharing his knowledge of the Winnebago Ash Baskets. Kathy E. Esch