Michael Emmett Dougherty

Michael Emmett Dougherty (Mike, Mick)

Michael Emmett Dougherty died peacefully at home on August 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and his beloved dog, Winnie.

Born in Sioux Falls, SD, in 1941 to William J. and Alice W. Dougherty, Mike was the youngest of four children. His childhood was marked by profound loss. His mother died of cancer when he was seven, and at fourteen, he was orphaned when his father suffered a fatal heart attack. In the years that followed, he was fortunate to be supported by his older brother Bill, his sister Susan, and the Sweetman family, whose love and compassion helped shaped the man he became.

Mike graduated from St. Thomas Military Academy, attended Creighton University, and graduated from the University of St. Thomas in 1966. In the intervening years, he served in the U.S. Army as an MP and was deployed to the University of Mississippi to keep the peace during James Meredith's historic integration of the school. He also worked as an advance man for the campaigns of John F. Kennedy, Hubert Humphrey, and George McGovern. These roles reflected his political interests and ability to connect with people.

In 1966, Mike married the love of his life, Kathy Stevens (St. Paul). He often said that his "life began when he met her." Kathy's love, strength, and ability to make the world a kinder place drew him in completely. He embraced her large family of eleven as his own and proudly claimed the title of the original Stevens "Outlaw." He loved, supported, teased, and stayed close to his eight adopted siblings throughout his life.

Mike was a proud father of two daughters, Sarah Dougherty Rekas (Bret) and Mollie Dougherty, and proud "Boppa" to six grandchildren. After Sarah was born, he announced to Kathy his hope their next child would be a girl too. He relished every moment with his girls and six grandchildren. They were the family he never had.

Mike's career was extraordinary. He ran a gubernatorial campaign in South Dakota. Criss-crossing the upper Midwest, Mike sold insurance to banks and raised funds for municipal hospitals and schools through bond issues. He joined Dain, Kalman & Quail in the bond department where he further honed his business skills. In 1977, Mike and his colleagues established Dougherty Dawkins Strand & Eckstrom, launching a successful entrepreneurial chapter that lasted for 43 years.

Mike was a natural leader, mentor and networker. He made others feel seen and valued, whether through a kind word, a phone call, or a thoughtful question. He loved his colleagues and often said his most important assets took the elevator down at 5PM. He built a company culture of respect and kindness. His business motto was simple: "Do good, work hard, and make money."

Mike had a deep commitment to improving healthcare that was rooted in his childhood trauma and his personal experience with cancer. He counselled and supported others facing health challenges of their own. Mike was instrumental in launching the UMN Center for Prostate Cancer, working tirelessly to improve access and outcomes for all. He served on numerous healthcare boards, including the University of Minnesota Health Systems, Allina Health, and The Mayo Clinic.

A proud "Tommie", Mike served on the University of St. Thomas Board of Trustees for over 20 years. In 2017, he became the founding benefactor of the Dougherty Family College (DFC) at the University of St. Thomas, which provides pathways to four-year degrees for students facing significant barriers. DFC is a source of great pride and joy for Mike and his family.

Mike was intellectually curious and had broad interests spanning music, travel, sports, politics, art, history, business, and, above all, people. He loved storytelling, South Dakota, and the thrill of a new car. He read three newspapers daily and loved being "in the know." Mike was a visionary, and a consummate dealmaker. He was loyal, present in the moment, and invested in the lives of those around him. He loved laughing and long phone conversations with his grandchildren and buddies. Mike was, in every sense, a true friend. His legacy of love of and compassion will live on through all those he's touched.

Above all, Mike was a devoted family man. He was funny and loved to tease. He planned his April fools tricks long in advance. Adventurous, and an obsessive planner, nothing brought Mike more joy than planning and taking family trips with those he loved most. Boppa's "Geekmo" adventures were full of excitement, fun, and more than a few surprises! Always the mentor, Mike shared his stories and guidance with his beloved daughters and grandchildren. But mostly, he led by example. We will miss him profoundly and remember him always.

"We love you, Mike, Dad, and Boppa." Rest in peace.

Mike is survived by his wife of 59 years, Kathy (Stevens) Dougherty; two daughters, Sarah (Bret) Dougherty Rekas and Mollie Dougherty; six grandchildren, Jacques de Carbonnieres, Thomas de Carbonnieres, William Rekas, Michael Rekas, Kate Rekas and Sophie de Carbonnieres; his sister Susan Mickey; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Alice Dougherty; and his brothers, Tom and William "Bill" Dougherty.

A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, August 20th at the Basilica of St Mary's in Minneapolis. Visitation will be prior to the service at 9 AM. Valet parking will be available. Following the service there will be a celebration of life and lunch at the Minikahda Club.

The family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Michael's honor to the Dougherty Family College at the University of St. Thomas.