Michael Moran Rajek

Michael Moran Rajek, 77, of Eau Claire, passed away unexpectedly on February 20, 2026, following a cardiac event, with his family by his side.

Michael was born on July 28, 1948, in Merrill to the late Edgar and Margaret Rajek. He graduated from Merrill High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire in 1971. While at UWEC, he played offensive guard for the Blugolds football team and maintained lifelong friendships with his teammates.

He continued his education at the University of Oklahoma College of Law, graduating in 1974. Michael practiced law in Wisconsin for more than 40 years. He served Pierce County in the prosecutor’s office for a decade and was elected District Attorney in the early 1980s. He later established his own law practice in Eau Claire, where he continued to serve clients with dedication and integrity until his passing.

Michael was a founding member of the National College for DUI Defense and remained deeply involved throughout his career, valuing both the professional development and the enduring friendships it fostered. He was also a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Wisconsin Federal Bar, and the American Academy of Trial Attorneys.

In June 1977, Michael married Brenda Christopherson. Together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage.  

He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda; his daughter, Alison (Stephen) Mildrexler; his cherished grandsons, Hart and Glade; his brothers, Ed (Kathy), Steve (Cindy), and Tom (Carrie); his sisters-in-law, Becky, Anita Bergevin, Joan (Charles) Tanger, and Andrea (Larry) Christopherson; his brothers-in-law, Michael (Debbie) Christopherson and Joe Anderson; his loyal dog, Wilson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dan; and his sister-in-law, Lucille Anderson.

Rajek loved deer hunting in Buffalo County at the Harschlip Farm, golfing, the Packers, Brewers, Badgers, Sooners, Blugolds, and sports of all kinds.  His knowledge of sports history was unmatched. Name a sporting event and he has been there, probably at least three times.  He was especially proud of his grandsons and treasured time spent visiting the Mildrexler family in Eugene, OR, including special trips to the beautiful Oregon Coast.

Known for his larger-than-life personality, Michael was an entertaining and prolific storyteller whose humor and presence could light up any room. He cherished his companionship of three golden retrievers over the years and held a deep love for the Eau Claire community he called home.

Visitation at Hulke Family Funeral Home on Friday, February 27th from 12-2pm, with formal service at the home at 2pm.  We will be gathering informally following the service at the Brewing Projekt (1807 N. Oxford) In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Eau Claire Community Parks Association or to the UW–Eau Claire Athletics Foundation. 

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