Michael "Mike" Misson

Michael "Mike" Misson, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his residence in Plummer, MN on January 20, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on August 13, 1949, in Crookston, MN, Mike proudly served in the United States Army from 1969 until 1970, attaining the rank of sergeant during his service in Vietnam. In recognition of his dedication, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was later released from his reserve obligations in 1975.

Mike's professional journey began after graduating from Mentor High School in 1968. He worked at Nordheim Roofing in Bemidji from 1971 to 1993 before transitioning to a career as a general contractor, a role he fulfilled until his retirement in 2006. Following retirement, Mike developed a passion for gardening, which brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

On July 29, 1972, Mike was united in marriage to Joy Ann Sanders.  To that union they were blessed with their children, Aaron, Heather, and Owen.

Known affectionately as “Grandpa Mike,” he was a larger-than-life personality, cherished for his lovable and boisterous nature. Mike was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need, exemplifying a spirit of generosity and kindness that endeared him to family and friends alike. Family was central to his life, and he treasured every moment spent with loved ones. From grilling at family reunions every July to camping trips during the summer and celebrating birthdays and holidays together, Mike's warm presence created a legacy of fond memories. He was a steadfast supporter at numerous sporting events for his family members, where his enthusiastic cheering will be sorely missed.

Mike is survived by his children, Aaron (Nancy) Misson, Heather (Nick) Hanson, and Owen (Carmen) Misson, all of Thief River Falls, MN. He found immeasurable joy in his grandchildren: Briar (McKenzie) Verbout, Courtny (Ridge) Jones, Samantha (Justin) Bierman, Katrina (Jeff) Miller, Mariah (Kyle) Jarvis, Te'a Childs, Bradley Nelson, Emma Sherman, Michael (Aly) Misson, Taylon (Lexi) Michalski, Lexi (Aaron) Veselka, Colin Hanson, Eddie Hanson, Joey Hanson, Tyrus Olson, Austin (Yolanda) Olson, and Brielle Grunig. He took pride in his role as a great-grandfather to Skylar, Ari, Tucker, Elsa, Addilynn, Jaxson, Watson, Brynnlie, Brooklynn, Samantha, Gwendolynn, Liam, Finley, Kaden, Clayton, Khalina, and Xander.  Mike will also be missed by the mother of his children, Joy.  Buddy, his faithful companion, will miss him dearly.

Mike also leaves behind his siblings, Kitty (Luverne) Lomen, Pat Olson, Betty (Kenny) Lomen, Tim Tice, and Pennie (Chad) Korynta, in addition to several aunts and uncles, including Paul Peterson, Gary Warner, Avis Sundbom, and Junette Crain, alongside many nieces, nephews, cousins, his next-door neighbor Val Paradis, and  friends who will carry his memory forward.

He was preceded in death by his father, Merle Owen Misson; mother, Donna Eldora (Virgil) Tice; brother, Kelly Tice; sister, Peggy Peterson; brother-in-law, Gary Olson; and nephew, Steven Olson.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the visitation on January 29, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN, followed by a prayer service at 6:00 PM. A visitation will also be held on January 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, leading into the funeral service at 11:00 AM at Faith Lutheran Church in Mentor, MN.  Military honors will be held following the funeral service.  Burial will take place at Rose Hill Cemetery, rural Mentor, MN. 

Mike’s legacy of love, laughter, and enduring family ties will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. With gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the profound impact he made in our lives.