Michael "Mike" Heisler SR

Michael LeRoy Heisler, Sr., 74, of Ogema, MN, passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family.

Born on June 29, 1950, in White Earth, MN, he was the son of Warren W. “Jiggs” and Phyllis “Doke” (Fairbanks) Heisler. Michael, affectionately known as “Mike,” married Dawn in 1970. Together, they raised four children and cherished their time with grandchildren. Family was at the heart of Mike’s life; he often expressed his love by claiming each child as his “favorite.” He looked forward to Christmas and holidays when the family would gather for food, stories, and gifts, and he was known for giving everyone unique family nicknames.

Mike enjoyed outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. He also had a passion for snowmobiling and spent many Friday nights with his uncles and friends. His love for cars included a collection of trucks and a racing car; he frequently attended races as both a spectator and participant.

In his early career, Mike trained as a barber in Bloomington and excelled in an international hairstyling competition. He later returned to White Earth for carpentry training and worked as a carpenter before becoming the Executive Director of White Earth Housing. After moving to Alaska for 15 years as a road construction inspector, he retired back to Minnesota to be closer to family.

Michael is survived by his wife Dawn; daughters, Tina Heisler, Annie (Jeff) Haverkamp, and Lynn (Walter Skramstad) Heisler; 18 grandchildren ; 11 great-grandchildren (with one on the way); brothers, Bradley (Julie) Heisler and Kenneth Heisler; brothers-in-law, Daniel (Patty) Englund, Richard (April) Englund, Patrick (Jeanie) Englund, Michael (Jeanette) Aldrich; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael "J.D." Heisler Jr., brothers, Warren W. Heisler Jr. and Steven J. Heisler; sister, Kathy Bevins; brother-in-law, William W. Englund; sister-in-law, Carrie Hudlin; and two great-grandchildren, Lucas and Kyson.

Michael will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A visitation for Mike will be held at White Earth Community Center, 26310 Crane Rd, White Earth, MN 56591, on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 4 to 7 PM. The funeral service will be held at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 36352 Cty Hwy 21, White Earth MN 56591, on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 11 AM with Father Greg Gallagher officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, White Earth. Luncheon following burial at White Earth Community Center.

David-Donehower Funeral Home is serving the family. For more information, please visit DavidDonehower.com, or call (218) 847-4147.