Michael J. Hommel
June 22, 1959 - September 06, 2026
Obituary
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Michael’s Livestream Service will begin at 11 a.m. CT on Friday, September 25, 2026. Scroll down to the Webcast section and click on “Watch Now.”
MADISON - Michael James Hommel, age 67, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on June 22, 1959, in Atmore, Ala., the son of Robert "Bob" Hommel and Nioma (Taylor) Stuart.
Michael met Scott Penney in Seattle, Wash., in 1997, and they were united in marriage in Seattle in 2014. Michael worked as a business office manager for SSM Health Dean Medical Group for over 20 years. He was deeply dedicated to his work and colleagues. While he could be “feared” for his high standards and strong presence, he was equally respected and loved by those who worked with him.
Michael had a zest for life. He loved high-end cars, a fine cocktail, good food, and great music, especially big-hair ’80s music. He was honest, funny, and truly the life of the party. He loved to decorate, especially for Christmas, when he would light up the entire house like a department store. He was particular about how things looked and was never afraid to rearrange something even if the cleaners had just finished putting it in place.
He loved to cook, entertain, and host dinner parties, often nearly every weekend. He collected food and holiday magazines and enjoyed watching the Food Network and especially America’s Test Kitchen. He was an avid reader and had an impeccable sense of style, always coordinating his outfit with the perfect shoes, watch, and sunglasses. He had a special love for dogs, especially his “soul guide,” Loki, who stayed faithfully by his side while he was ill.
Michael is survived by his spouse, Scott; sisters, Martha Colbert, Elizabeth "Del" Harris, Karen Rackard and Melanie Rolin; brother, Robert "Bobby" Hommel; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert "Bob" Hommel and Nioma Elizabeth Stuart; sisters, Lillian Conway and Betty Joyce Walker; and grandmother, Avis Gimel who help raise him in his early years.
A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made by going to Scott’s Fundraiser site for the Badger Challenge 5K Run/Walk supporting the UW Carbone Cancer Center Scott Penney - Badger Challenge (link is below). Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420
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