Michael Conrad Nowicki peacefully passed away on December 30, 2023, in Grafton, Wisconsin, at the age of 78. He was surrounded by his loving daughters, sisters, brother-in-law, cousin, grandchildren, and dear friends before and during his departure. He is survived by his daughters, Corinne and Jessica Nowicki; his grandchildren, Lucy and Quinn Corcoran, and Luca and Maewyn Coker; siblings, Joan Werner and Julia Nowicki; nephew, John Swank; nieces, Julia Werner and Madeline Cunningham. Mike is now reunited with his third daughter, Anne, who preceded him in death on May 11, 2023.

Mike was born on September 11, 1945, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He attended Riverside High School before serving in the United States Navy, active duty on the USS Kitty Hawk aircraft carrier from 1967-1969, during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he earned a master's degree in physical education at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Thereafter, he dedicated 22 years of service teaching physical education and coaching swimming at Milwaukee Public Schools, primarily Riverside High School. He founded Milwaukee's first African American Swim Team, coached more than 500 swimmers and divers, and amassed 10 conference championships. Mike's passion for teaching was motivated by a deep satisfaction in nurturing the personal growth of his students. His dedication was honored through a Lifetime Achievement Award, an officially proclaimed Michael Nowicki Day (March 9th, 2001), and the "Nowicki Sprints" annual swim meet, held this year on January 20th at Riverside High School.

Mike's love for the water extended into SCUBA diving, snorkelling, and tending to his residential pond. His lifelong wonderment for travel led him on journeys throughout the world, including Australia, Japan, the Caribbean, Canada, and Europe. As a photography enthusiast, he chronicled his and his family's life journey through the lens of his camera. He was also a devoted film buff, making short films with childhood friends and later becoming an avid member of the nonprofit organization Milwaukee Film. With deep loyalty, endearing childlike humor, and an open heart, he prioritized his community, friends, and family. He is remembered as a meticulously thoughtful gift-giver and a wonderful conversationalist, discussing current affairs, science, philosophy, the arts, and travel. Above all, he devoted his life to the happiness and health of his three daughters, never missing an opportunity to express his unconditional love and pride for them.

A Memorial Service will be held at the First Congregational Church, 131 N. Webster Street, Port Washington, WI, on Monday, January 22nd, 2024 at 11:00am. The family will receive visitors at the church from 9:30am until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the First Congregational Church (office@portucc.org), Milwaukee Film Organization or National Public Radio.