Michael John Battleson

1948 - 2024

Michael John Battleson

Born January 8, 1948, to Agnes and James Battleson in Minneapolis. Died from a short bout of esophageal cancer Feb. 16, 2024. Mike was surrounded by his loved ones at the time of his death.

Mike was a lover of all animals and small children. He considered himself a biker, but those who knew him saw a much gentler side than one would think of when they think of bikers. He moved to God's country in 2005, where he and his wife, Suzi, built a home that Suzi designed. Prior to living up there, he would call Conger, Lake Mills, and Osceola, Iowa, home. He was raised by his grandparents on their farm until he was 14. Then he moved back to live with his mother. He worked off and on for many years for Paul Kleinschrodt on his farm. Mike loved to drive the big tractors and combines on the farm.

Mike loved motorcycles, old tractors, big ships, living in the North Woods, cooking by campfire, most people, campfires and being outdoors, building things with Suzi, and telling stories of his life. Everything from growing up on a farm to the 5 ½ years of driving truck across country with Suzi.

Mike always had a cold beer ready whenever somebody would stop in to visit. Mike loved company and talking to anybody and everybody. No matter where he went, he met someone he knew from the past or at least made a new friend.

After Mike retired, he became a supervisor for his township where he excelled at public relations. Anybody that knew Mike was touched by the man with a big heart in a pair of bib overalls.

Mike had four children, Jon and Mary from his first wife, Linda, and Justin and Heather from his second wife, Shelby. Suzi and Mike were married in 1999 and were together until his death.

Mike is survived by Suzi, his wife of 25 years; and two of his children, Jon (Kris) and Mary; siblings, Terry, Mary Jo and Kim; half brothers, Dave and Dan; many grandkids and great-grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes and James; grandparents, and two of his children, Justin and Heather.

A celebration of his life will be held at Wuori Town Hall from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 23.