Mike Dole

Mike Dole, 81, died August 28, 2025, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born in the family home in Burrton, on August 1, 1944, to John Clifton and Ruth Marjorie (Stanley) Dole.

Mike was a 1962 Burrton High School and 1964 Hutchinson Community College graduate. He worked as a machinist at Cessna and Arrow Machine before owning and operating Michael Machine, Burrton, for several years. Following his work as a machinist, he attended and graduated from Wichita State University with a Bachelor of Psychology degree in 1998. He was a corrections counselor for the Department of Corrections at Hutchinson Correctional Facility for many years.

Mike was a proud family man whose greatest joy was following the lives and activities of his children and grandchildren. He especially loved cheering on his grandkids in their sporting events, never missing a chance to be their biggest fan. A fiercely loyal friend, Mike was known for his sharp, inventive mind and his wicked sense of humor. His quick wit and mischievous streak meant he always seemed to be "up to something," bringing laughter and light to everyone around him.

A lifelong sports fan, Mike enjoyed watching the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs, KU basketball, and the NCAA basketball tournament. He had a deep love of baseball, playing as a young boy through his early 30s, and he later developed a passion for running, completing between 30 to 40 marathons. Mike also loved music and enjoyed listening to jazz, blues, and classic rock.

On June 3, 1972, Mike married Patricia Louise "Patty" Brandenberger, in Wichita. Their wedding was officiated by his brother, Stanley.

He is survived by: his wife of 53 years, Patty Dole of Burrton; daughters, Stacey (Troy) Moeder of Hutchinson, Holly (Kevin) Lampe of St. Francis; grandchildren, Logan Lampe of Brewster, Luke Lampe of McDonald, Lyden Lampe of Colby; and sister, Margery Howell of Hutchinson.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Lavonne Jeffrey, Clifton Dole, Richard Dole, Ruth Ann Banks, Stanley Dole, and James Dole.

Celebration of Life service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Elliott Mortuary. Family will greet friends an hour prior to the service. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, at Elliott Mortuary. Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association or Ruth Dole Memorial Library, Burrton, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.