Fr. Michael J. "Father Mike" BYRON

Age 62, of Eden Prairie Passed away on May 20, 2022 "Father Mike" will be dearly missed by his family, many friends, parishioners and all whom he impacted in the Twin Cities community and beyond. Preceded in death by parents John P. and Mary L. Byron. Survived by siblings Molly (Jeff) Hill, Minnetonka, MN; Jim Byron, Scottsdale, AZ; Martha Byron, Eden Prairie, MN; Joe (Deb) Byron, Duluth, MN and Anne (Ryan) Anderson, Blaine, MN. He is also survived by nieces and nephews Matthew, Sarah (L.J.) and Chris Hill; Michael and J.T. Byron and Victoria Anderson. His loving extended family includes many cousins, aunts and uncles. Mike grew up in Our Lady of Grace parish in Edina, graduated from Edina West High School, and continued his education at St. John's University, the St. Paul Seminary, and the Weston Jesuit School of Theology in Cambridge, MA, where he received his doctorate in theology. He carried forward many lifelong friendships from each stop along the way. Father Mike was ordained on May 27, 1989 and served with compassion, wisdom and intelligence for thirty-three years at several parishes in the Twin Cities, including Church of the Assumption, Richfield; St. Olaf Catholic Church, Minneapolis; Church of St. Cecilia, St. Paul; The Church of St. Pascal Baylon, St. Paul and most recently Pax Christi Catholic Community, Eden Prairie. Mike's list of gifts was long. He was warm and welcoming. He had a beautiful Irish tenor singing voice as well as a hilarious sense of humor. His lifetime love of learning led to his role as a talented teacher, sharing his knowledge over many years with students at Holy Angels, St. John's University, St. Kate's and the St. Paul Seminary. He was a gifted homilist, deep thinker, skilled writer, caring mentor, and good listener. As the eldest of six siblings, Mike was our quiet leader, and an unfailing source of love and support. His warmth and often irreverent humor was a consistent, reassuring presence in our lives. He will be forever missed. Visitation on Wednesday, June 1, 4:00-7:00 PM at Pax Christi Catholic Community, 12100 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie. Mass of Christian Burial, Thursday, June 2, at 11:00 AM at Pax Christi, with lunch to follow. Visitation 9:00-10:45 AM prior to the service. Live stream provided by paxchristi.com In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to the J. Michael Byron Memorial Fund. www.washburn-mcreavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996