Michael "Mike" Bradford died unexpectedly in his home on September 17th, 2025 in Altoona, Wisconsin at the age of 51. Mike was born the son of Steve and Deborah Bradford on April 24th, 1974 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Mike graduated from high school at Bethel Christian School in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. He received an associate degree from UW Eau Claire, a bachelor's degree from UW La Crosse and a Masters degree from the University of Minnesota, Saint Cloud. Mike graduated in the field of archaeology. Mike loved Jesus. He even considered becoming a missionary while still in school. He had many friends from all over the world. He loved books, fishing, music, movies and axe throwing. Anyone who knew Mike, knew that he loved his cats. Mike loved working in the field of archaeology. His work took him to many interesting places throughout the midwest and beyond. He especially enjoyed working with native Americans on some of the projects on their lands. His favorite projects were working at the Mayan ruins in Mexico. Mike loved to travel. During off seasons from his archaeology work, he would spend extended time overseas in Vienna, Austria and traveled from there. He visited the pyramids and Roman ruins among other locations. Mike was very interested in ancestry and his Norwegian heritage. His persistence in following leads helped him to find a cousin and aunt that he never knew he had! Although he never had children himself, Mike was very fond of his five nieces and his one nephew. He was very good about remembering them at Christmas and on their birthdays. He was especially proud to be godfather of his only nephew Quinn. Mike is survived by his grandfather, Frank Johnston, grandmother, Betty Purdy; his parents, Steve & Deb Bradford; his brothers, Matt (Bruna), Marc (Kelly), Mitch (Shana); his nieces, Bella, Charli, Teagan, Carmen, Kyli and nephew, Quinn; his aunts and uncles, Randy & Patricia Purdy, Kay & Tom Karker, Wayne & Karen Johnston, Sue & Steve Johnston, Debi Spurgeon, Rick Hallum, Ruth & Gary Linse and many cousins. He is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Marvin Bradford and Gilbert Purdy; grandmothers, Eunice Johnston and Marge Purdy; aunt, Kris Hallum and uncle, Mickey Johnston. Funeral services will take place at 11am on Saturday, September 27, at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1120 Cedar St. Eau Claire, WI with Pastor Josh Toufar officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior at the church. Online condolences may be shared at www.lenmarkfh.com.