Michael James Marsolek

Michael James Marsolek, 64 of Dallas, Texas passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma, 

He was born in Palo Alto, California in 1960 to parents Meredyth Jean Marsolek (now Harris) and Ronald Eugene Marsolek. His family eventually relocated to Wisconsin where he grew up and made life-long friends.

Michael attended South Milwaukee Senior High before studying at the University of Wisconsin and pledging to the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity (Fijis). He graduated in 1985 with a degree in Construction Engineering and Management. In true entrepreneurial spirit, he left his hometown and moved to Texas where, over the next 45 years, he owned several businesses before accepting a position as President of Construction at New Leaf Custom Homes. There he used his hard-earned expertise and experience to help build the company up to the level of success it enjoys today. His contributions earned him a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025. “In recognition of a lifetime of loyalty, leadership, and heart. You built more than homes - You built a legacy that will forever define us.”

Michael enjoyed gardening, hunting, and vacations on the beach, but his favorite activity was spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, and uncle and was happiest when he could gather as many people together as possible. He was always the first one to welcome you with a hug or a drink and no get-together could truly start until he arrived. If you’ve ever attended one of his parties, you know he commanded the room with a dad joke or a tall tale which was his gift for making everyone comfortable and connected. He was also very tender-hearted, larger than life with a magnetic and caring personality that naturally drew people to him. If Micheal deemed you a part of his inner circle, you know that he took personal ownership to love, care and support you through all of life’s joys, blessings or sorrow. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.

Dad, no words could ever capture the love we have for you, but we will try our best. From our smallest feats to our endless sports careers, you have been our greatest supporter. There has never been a doubt in our minds about the love you have for us. We were so lucky to have you as our father, and we know you will always be watching over us. We love you mountains. -Your Daughters

My loving husband, the heartbreak and sorrow of losing you can only be surpassed by the comfort of having been loved by you. You only saw beauty where I saw scars. You admired the woman who had “paid her dues” and lavished me with poetic expressions of that love:

“You are like an orchid. I have to keep you in the perfect light (your heart). Keep the right amount of water and love (your soul). Then you will flourish and your beauty will be my reward. I will never leave you. Always and forever. Love, Michael”

I have been blessed beyond measure to have been the object of your affection, and you will always have my heart. I will see you again, my love. ~ Your wife, Jill.

Michael is survived by his wife: Jill Marsolek; daughters Lauren Marsolek, Alexandra Bradford, Nicole Marsolek and Dominique Marsolek; step-sons Tanner Masters and Cody Masters; grand-daughter Ember Bradford, mother Meredyth Harris and step-father Roger Harris; siblings Lynn Santulli and Scott Marsolek; nephew Adam Kusy; nieces Jacqueline and Rachel Santulli as well as his dog, Jax who he pretended not to love yet secretly spoiled and many other beloved extended family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his father Ronald Marsolek.

In lieu of a traditional service, there will be a Celebration of Life in the new year. Details to follow at a later date.