Brookfield, Wis. (July 14, 2026) – MLG Capital is saddened to announce the passing of MLG Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus, J. Michael “Mike” Mooney, who passed away on July 1, 2026.
Mike Mooney co-founded MLG Commercial and MLG Development in 1987, where his passion for brokerage, development, relationships, and people helped shape decades of meaningful work in commercial real estate. For those who knew him, Mike was far more than a business leader. He was a partner, friend, mentor, storyteller, and steady presence whose big smile, warm heart, and love for people helped define what it meant to be part of the MLG family.
Mike loved sharing the MLG story, especially with new employees, and he personified the belief in making a difference while making a living. He helped champion a culture rooted in integrity, care, accountability, and genuine relationships.
“Mike’s influence on MLG and on the people who knew him is immeasurable,” said Tim Wallen, Principal & CEO of MLG Capital. “He was a great partner and friend, and it was always a blessing to have Mike on your team. He loved people, he loved MLG, and he helped create a culture rooted in integrity, care, accountability, and a genuine desire to make a difference. We are saddened by this loss and grateful for the life Mike lived and the legacy he leaves behind. We are committed to honoring him by carrying that spirit forward.”
Over more than five decades in real estate, Mike earned the respect of peers across Wisconsin and beyond, mentored countless professionals, and left a legacy rooted in integrity, care, accountability, and genuine relationships. His influence reached far beyond MLG through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening the commercial real estate community. Mike was a co-founder, past president, and longtime director of NAIOP Wisconsin, served on the Wisconsin Realtors Association Board of Directors, was a director of the Wisconsin Economic Development Association, and served on NAI Global’s Worldwide Leadership Board, including two terms as chairman. Whether supporting economic development initiatives, advancing industry organizations, or mentoring emerging professionals, Mike’s contributions helped shape both the profession and the communities it serves.
A gathering will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield. Memorials in Mike’s name may be made to Children’s Wisconsin in support of mental and behavioral health services or to Marquette University High School.
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About MLG Capital
MLG Capital is a sponsor of private real estate funds targeting investment from investment advisors, family offices, and accredited individuals. For more information about MLG Capital and its investments, visit the firm’s newsroom.
