Michael John HANTON

1962 - 2023

Age 61, of Burnsville Passed away suddenly on July 17, 2023 Born in Duluth, Minnesota, on February 10, 1962 to Sarann Ryan and Edward Hanton. Mike lived most of his life in St. Paul and attended Saint Thomas Academy. Mike initially headed west to the mountains of Montana and Wyoming to pursue his interest in outdoor guiding. He subsequently received a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science and had a full career in the medical device field – most recently at Medtronic. He worked with varied health professionals and made his mark with unmatched enthusiasm and personality. Mike met his wife Cleta of 34 years in 1987. In addition to son Ryan, Mike and Cleta added four more boys to their home – Cole, Spencer, Sam, and Ragen. His biggest blessings were his grandchildren which gave him so much joy. They will miss his larger-than-life personality and have lasting memories of their grandpa. Born a creative and curious soul, Mike was a gifted and passionate photographer. His children, grandchildren, northern Minnesota lakes, and the western mountains were common subjects. Mike could create art from just about anything and explored a variety of mediums including writing, photography, acrylics, and singing off key. He generously shared his creations with friends and family. He enjoyed keeping a pristine yard, and bountiful garden, cooking, a glistening summer pool, and countless home improvement projects. Mike possessed a keen sense of humor – clever, wry, and witty. He had the gift of gab, incredible charm, a wickedly handsome smile and hugs that made you come back for more. He will be missed by so, so many friends and family. Mike is preceded in death by stepparents Leo Slattery and Mary McDermott Hanton; as well as cousin Margie Anne Hanton. He is survived by his wife Cleta; sons Ryan, Cole (Julia), Spencer (Jaimie), Sam and Ragen. He was adored by his grandchildren Ayden, Michael, John, and Avery; his parents Sarann Ryan Slattery and Edward Hanton (Polly); siblings Jim Hanton (Carrie), Mary Hanton, Cathy Marx (Joe), and Margaret Mary Cunningham; John and Sharon Hanton; the Chambers family; and countless nieces, nephews and cousins will be among the many extended relatives and family that will miss him dearly. Somebody said "good friends like Mike are stars you don't always see but you know they are always there…" Services to be held Saturday, July 22 at 2 p.m. with visitation at 1 p.m. at Washburn McReavey Funeral Home Washburn-McReavy Bloomington Chapel, 2300 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN 55431. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in honor of Mike to MENARDS (inside joke). Memorials to Gillette Children's Hospital in St. Paul.