Michael Erlitz 05/09/2026

Michael “Mike” Erlitz, age 31, passed away unexpectedly on May 9, 2026.
Mike was born on December 6, 1994, in Stillwater, Minnesota, to Ann and Kevin Erlitz. He spent his early childhood in Houlton, Wisconsin, before moving to Somerset at the age of seven, where he grew up surrounded by family, friends, and the outdoors he loved so much.
From a young age, Mike enjoyed anything outdoors and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He loved ATV riding, hunting season, bonfires with friends and family, and fixing just about anything he could get his hands on — from dirt bikes to lawn mowers. Mike never missed a family gathering or get-together and truly cherished the people closest to him. His loyal dog, Liam, was rarely far from his side and was his constant companion through life’s adventures.
Mike also worked alongside his dad in the family business, Erlitz Drywall, where he learned the value of hard work and dedication early in life. He graduated from Somerset High School in 2013 before continuing his education at Dakota County Technical College, where he became a certified lineman. Mike worked for Universal Service before later joining Schmitt & Sons Excavating, where he was proud to contribute to another family business. Most recently, Mike worked for Ron’s Sewer and had just accepted a position with St. Croix Valley Gas Company, a new opportunity he was excited to begin.
Mike married Paige Binkowski on October 14, 2023, in Prescott, Wisconsin. Together they built a life centered around family and raising their two boys.
In his adult years, Mike’s greatest joy was being a father. He treasured every moment spent with his boys — teaching them how to ride bikes, play in the dirt, and simply enjoy being kids. His boys were the center of his world, and he loved them deeply.
Mike will be remembered for his incredible sense of humor, his strength, and the way he could bring laughter and light into any room he walked into. No matter what life threw at him, Mike always kept going and found a way to make others smile. He was a loving and devoted father, husband, son, brother, uncle, nephew, grandson, and friend whose caring heart touched countless lives.
Mike is survived by his beloved sons, Donavin “Vinny” and Charlie; his wife, Paige; his parents, Ann and Kevin Erlitz; his siblings, Madalyn Erlitz, Claire (Robbie) Kodluboy, and Megan (Austin) Larson; his nephews, Russell and Vern; his father-in-law, Corey Binkowski; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Zachary Binkowski and Hayley (Brandyn) Seipel; his nephews, Camdyn and Carter Seipel; his faithful sidekick, Liam the black lab; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Donavin and Judy Schmitt, Lorraine Erlitz, Charlie Erlitz, and Stella Comer; and by mother-in-law, Sandra Binkowski.
In honor of Mike’s love for the outdoors and ATV riding, the family encourages everyone to ride safe, wear protective gear, and cherish every moment with the people you love.
Visitation will be on Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 4-8 pm with a prayer service at 8 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services 728 S Knowles Avenue New Richmond, WI and on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 9-11 am at St. Anne’s Church 141 Church Hill Road Somerset, WI. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, May 15, 2026 at 11 am at St. Anne’s Church. Fellowship will follow the funeral Mass downstairs in Caron Hall.
Mike’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Each time you enjoy a Busch Light or see someone with a pinch of chew think of Mike.