Michael A. Clemens Sr.

1935 - 2026

Michael A. Clemens Sr., age 90, of Forest Lake, passed away peacefully at the family home on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with his faithful dog by his side.

Preceded in death by wife of almost 62 years, Adele; mother, Clara Clemens; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Kathie Clemens; brother-in-law and wife, Kermit and Ardell Rodke.

He will be greatly missed and forever loved by his children, Susan Clemens, Michael Jr. (Kathy) Clemens, Theresa (Peter) Moran and John (Shelly) Clemens; loving grandchildren, Michael (Kate) and great-granddaughter Juliette Clemens, Miranda (Chris) Gray, Mitchell (fiancée' Heather) Clemens, Patrick (Lindsay) Moran, Jennifer (Mike) Slater, Joseph Moran, Alyssa, Josie, Victoria (step-daughter) Clemens, and special friend Patricia Thommes.

Mike grew up in the NE Minneapolis area with his brother and mother. He was always a hard worker even from a very young age. His first job was delivering city newspapers on foot with his younger brother, as they were inseparable. He then got a job cleaning kennels with a dear friend that served as a role model and taught him life lessons and how to train dogs and run in field trials. After graduating from Central High School in Minneapolis, he joined the Naval Air Reserve and remained active for eight years.

After running his prize black lab at a field trial in Fargo, he attended a wedding dance where he met Adele. They dated for two years, married on July 2, 1960, and purchased a duplex in Minneapolis. As the family grew, they built their family home in rural Forest Lake and moved to the country. Mike embraced country life after growing up as a city boy. He enjoyed being a hobby farmer, raising animals, helping with 4-H projects, and reaping the harvest from their large garden. His professional work life started as a Printer at Rapinwax in Minneapolis. After several years he joined the Washington County Sheriff's Department as a Deputy Sheriff and had an incredible 25-year career. He loved his work as a Deputy Sheriff and was known as Officer Friendly. The family cherished many camping trips in the summer months and were often joined by close friends and relatives.

After retiring from Washington County, Mike and Adele loved their vacations and cruises with dear friends, in addition to wintering in Arizona and Texas with their RV. Many memorable winters were enjoyed dog training and visiting friends with numerous adventures along the way.

Mike led a life of service and was deeply devoted to his faith, the love of his life Adele, family, and friends.

Visitation 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Friday, February 13, 2026, with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at St. Genevieve Parish - St. John's site, 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo. Private family interment at St. John's Cemetery at a later date. Memorials preferred to Washington County 4-H or Hugo Food Shelf in his name.