Michael "BUFF" G. Tadych Jr.

Michael “BUFF” G. Tadych Jr., 63, of Fond du Lac passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Hospice Home of Hope after a stubborn two-year battle with cancer — one he fought in true Buff fashion, with grit, humor, and family by his side.

Born January 23, 1962, in Fond du Lac to Michael and Donna (Leonhardt) Tadych, Buff grew up Catholic and attended Presentation School in North Fond du Lac. Though faith guided him, his true sanctuary was his garage, the woods, and anywhere the outdoors called. A mechanic by trade, Buff could fix just about anything with an engine — and if he couldn’t, he’d grumble about it until he did. He worked many years at J & K Summerfield Alignment, where he left both cars and coworkers better than he found them (though never without a few colorful words).

Buff was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt with the love of his life, Dawn, fish, trap, and keep an eagle eye on the bird feeders. He had a legendary green thumb — growing vegetables, flowers… Just like all Tadych Men. He loved motorcycles, watching sports, going to concerts, and, most of all, telling it like it was. Beneath the tough exterior and occasional grumble was a man whose loyalty, wit, and heart made him unforgettable.

He leaves behind the love of his life, Dawn Manthe; his father Michael (Sandra) Tadych; stepchild Shawn Manthe; siblings Kelly (Mark) Schwartz, Suzanne Immel, Shely (Seth) Mason, Debora Van Gorder, Melissa (Bob) Visalli, Mary Kate (Peter Bellendir) Friess, and John Tadych; along with a lively crew of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who adored him just the way he was. He is now reunited with his mother Donna Tadych, his brothers Kurt Hinkley and Brian Tadych, and grandparents William and Phyllis Tadych, and Emma and August Leonhardt — no doubt already raising a little ruckus in heaven.

A visitation will be held Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Uecker-Witt Funeral Home. Another visitation will follow Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM at the funeral home, with funeral services at 10:00 AM and burial at Ledgeview Memorial Park Cemetery.

Buff lived life his own way — equal parts gruff and giving, stubborn and sweet. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com