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Todd Michael Middleton, age 55, of Sparta, passed away on August 30, 2025, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Todd was born on December 28, 1969, in Sparta to John Middleton Sr. (Barb) and Susan Van Kirk (Rodney Aney). He grew up in Sparta, graduating from Sparta High School in 1988. He later attended Western Wisconsin Technical College, where he studied for two years to become a mechanic and later furthered his education to become a Senior Master Mechanic. Todd went on to establish his own business, Middleton Auto Repair, proudly serving the Sparta community with his vast knowledge and generous personality.
On life’s journey, Todd was blessed with his wife, Crystal, and three children: Brett Michael Middleton, Logan Makenzie Johnson, and Charleigh Kathleen Johnson and one granddaughter: Sage Middleton. Todd cherished his family deeply and always supported them in every way. Todd and Crystal were unique in their closeness and devotion to one another. Not often finding one without the other, they truly did share a life as one. Working, playing, loving and laughing through this life every single step, in every way. Because of this deep love and devotion, she will carry his very unique and special spirit with her to eternity.
He had a lifelong love of the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, trapping, fishing and canoeing. He was happiest when hunting, hearing stories of his friends and loved one’s hunts, talking shop, working in his yard, heading out on adventures in the Jeep and singing at the top of his lungs. Todd also loved working with his hands and was never afraid to try something new. If there was a hobby to be had, Todd had it or had at least tried it. Friends knew him as reliable, caring, honest and always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help. Todds personality brought a quiet and warm calm while simultaneously bringing joy and humor to everyone he encountered. His complete honesty brought laughter and light to every conversation. Time spent with Todd always ended in a story or a memory for the people who loved him the most. A truly extraordinary man, he made everyone’s lives he touched better in any possible way he could. To know and love his wonderful spirit was an honor that leaves behind a void that cannot be filled by so many. His reach was far and wide. A light in all our lives that will be forever missed. He touched the lives of many. Todd was not only a friend, but a best friend. To know him was to love him.
Todd is survived by his wife, Crystal Middleton; son, Brett Middleton; daughters, Logan Johnson and Charleigh Johnson; mother, Susan Aney (Rodney); father, John Middleton Sr. (Barb); grandmother, Beverly Heilman; granddaughter, Sage Middleton; sister, Angela Loeffelholz (Todd); brothers, Jason Aney, John Middleton Jr. (Mars), and Troy Middleton; many nieces and nephews and man’s best friend, his beloved dog, Farrah.
He was preceded in death by his uncles, Ray Jr. Van Kirk and John Van Kirk, and his grandfather, Ray Sr. Van Kirk grandparents Kenneth & Betty, cousin; Kenneth Middleton Jr.
Todd will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love of family, and the way he lived life to the fullest— and the familiar call of “Hey man, where you at?” His memory will forever be treasured by those who loved him. Keep living the High Life, Mister.
True to his life of services and support, Todd was blessed with the opportunity to continue that by becoming an honorary organ donor. Less than 1% of potential donors qualify for this important program. In addition, Todd Michael Middleton will be recorded in medical history as the first person in history to have match sampling flown by drone to be tested and compared. He and his family will be honored at the Governor’s Mansion for his heroism in the future where a plaque will be placed in honor of Todd.
A Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Saturday, at the funeral home.
A Memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Pastor Randy Williamson officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held following the service at 12:30 p.m. at Wisco 8, in Sparta.
Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
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