Michael John 'Mick' Obrodovich

PHOENIX, Ariz. - Michael John "Mick" Obrodovich passed away at St. Joe's Hospital in Phoenix on Jan. 9, 2017.

He was born March 14, 1941, in Hurley, Wis., to Mike and Rose Obrodovich.

Obrodovich graduated from Eagle River Union High School in 1959. He received his bachelor's degree in education at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and his master's degree in administration at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

He was co-owner of Lakeland Motor Sales. Prior to moving to Arizona, Mick was a teacher and principal at Central School in Rhinelander, Wis., and curriculum coordinator for the Northland Pines School District in Eagle River, Wis. He loved Eagle River and served on numerous boards, including the ERRA as president and chairman for the Youth's Day auction for six years. Obrodovich also served as the school district's representative as a trustee for the Walter E. Olson Memorial Library.

It was in Arizona that Obrodovich discovered his real passion - interior decorating and leather furniture. He went to work for Creative Leather in Phoenix, working with owner Bert Hayenga. Together they built Creative Leather into a leather furniture leader in Arizona and other Western states.

In his retirement. he loved working for the Metro Auto Auction. He also enjoyed organizing and decorating for events for his beloved friends and fellow residents at Heritage Park Condos. Mick took very great care of his mother, Rose, for many years while she lived at Heritage Park Condos.

Mick is survived by his beloved brother, Tom, and his wife, Deb, and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rose and Mike Obrodovich.

A memorial service will be held in Eagle River on Saturday, Jan. 21, at the Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home at 11 a.m. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. until the time of service. Deacon Skip McCaughn will officiate. A luncheon will follow.

The family will hold additional services in Phoenix at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Walter E. Olson Memorial Library Foundation or to the ERRA.

Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com.