Michael Patrick "Mike" Evert

Mike Evert, age 73, of Hendricks, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at the Hendricks Nursing Home, surrounded by his loving wife and children. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, at St. John Cantius Church in Wilno, Minnesota. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. A lunch will follow the service. Houseman Funeral Home, Birk Chapel of Hendricks, Minnesota, has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Michael Patrick Evert was born on March 17, 1952, in Zumbrota, Minnesota, to Ina (Stee) and Lawrence Evert. He grew up in Zumbrota with his parents and siblings, where lifelong values of faith, family, and hard work were formed.

Mike was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a cherished grandpa/papa. His greatest passions in life were his family, friends, coaching, and his horses. He could most often be found on the farm with his horses-often being referred to as "the Horse Whisperer"-cheering on his children and grandchildren at their events, or coaching countless athletes throughout the years.

Most of all, Mike was a family man. He was united in marriage to Sharon Johnson on July 7, 1979, and together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage. They were blessed with three children: Shane, Brittany, and Megan. Mike was a doting grandfather to six beloved grandchildren: Jada Hoolihan, Deklan Hoolihan, Payton Evert, Parker Evert, Bridger Kroh, and Berkley Kroh –- lovingly known to her papa as "Bright Eyes."

Throughout his career, Mike taught Industrial Technology (Shop) at Hendricks Public School, worked for Sandro's Woodshop building timber frame homes, and coached football, basketball, and track, leaving a lasting impact on students and athletes alike.

Some of the family's most cherished memories include trips to Disney World and Yellowstone. Mike especially loved sharing his passion for horses with his grandchildren, giving pony and buggy rides, and creating memories that will be treasured forever. He was known for his kind and easygoing nature, calm spirit, and warm sense of humor. Mike will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Grateful for having shared Mike's life are his wife, Sharon; children Shane (Emily) Evert of Moorhead, MN; Brittany (Sean) Hoolihan of Spring Valley, WI; and Megan (Tyler) Kroh of Aurora, SD; and his beloved grandchildren Jada and Deklan Hoolihan, Payton and Parker Evert, and Bridger and Berkley Kroh. He is also survived by his brother Larry (Sheri) Evert; sister-in-law Dawn Evert; brother-in-law David Evert; sister-in-law Terri DiNello, sister-in-law Jill (Joel) Huber, sister-in-law Tamara Johnson, brother-in-law Keith (Lisa) Johnson, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Ina Evert; sister Patricia Anderson and brother-in-law Ted Anderson; brothers Jeff Evert (Barb), William Evert, and Mark Evert; parents-in-law Kenneth and Lois Johnson; and brother-in-law Brad Johnson.

Mike was a faithful man who lived his life with quiet strength, kindness, and trust in God. Though his earthly work is done, we take comfort in knowing he has been called home to heaven. There, Mike rides

free-reunited with loved ones, surrounded by peace, and forever in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served.