Michael Bruce Pankratz, 58, Glidden

Michael Bruce Pankratz, age 58, of Glidden, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday September 21, 2026. He was

born on November 24, 1967, the son of Harold and Harriet (Straetz) Pankratz. After graduating

from the Glidden High School, Michael served his country as a MP in the United States Army.

He attended WITC in Ashland to earn his Machinist certificate. Michael was a truck driver and

trainer for many years and was recently a boiler mechanic for Columbia Forest Products. He

served as an EMT for the Glidden community. He was a member of the Glidden VFW and

enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. One of his favorite

memories was playing basketball for the Glidden High School when they went to State in 1985,

where he proudly wore jersey number 42.

He is survived by his (3)children: Amber (Ryan) Van Asten of Rudolph, Tristan Pankratz of

Marshfield, and Jesse Pankratz of Glidden, his two grandchildren: Lorelei and Logan, his

brother Peter Pankratz of Mississippi, his sister Terry Vierig of Glidden, and nieces, nephews,

and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law

Glen Vierig.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30am at Most Precious Blood Catholic Cemetery in

Glidden on Saturday October 3, 2026. Deacon Robert Schienebeck will officiate. Military

Honors under the auspices of the Glidden VFW will follow. Family and friends are invited back

to the VFW Hall where a luncheon and celebration of life will be held until 3:00pm

Birch Street Funeral Service is assisting the family.