Michael M. Lasko, 74, of Sparta, died Thursday, August 24, 2006 at the Lakeview Health Center, West Salem, WI.  He was born on March 11, 1932 to Michael M. Lasko Sr. and Alice C. Hynne. He grew up in the La Crosse area.  After school he started iron working.  He was initiated in 1952 into the International Association of Bridge Structural Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Local 383 of Madison, WI.

     He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.  After the service he continued work with the Local 383 which took him all over the United States.  For 42 years he was known among his fellow ironworkers as “Iron Mike”.

     He married Josephine Vogel.  They raised their family and spent most of their lives in Big Creek, Bangor, WI.  They later moved to Sparta.

     Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities.

     He is survived by his children, Rebecca (Allen) Knoll of Sparta,  William Lasko of Indiana, Joseph (Beatrice) Lasko of Sparta, and Patricia Heintz of Sparta; 11 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; 10 brothers and sisters; and many other relatives.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Josephine; and his son, Michael III.