Mike was born on August 18, 1939, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to George and Vuela Mason. He grew up in Southern Illinois and graduated from Vandalia High School before his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois. After college he began his career at Green Giant, married his first wife, Marilee, and had two children, Deanna and Michael Scott.
Mike’s career brought him to Sleepy Eye in 1976 when he accepted a position as Plant Manager aka White Hat at the Del Monte Plant. He dedicated many years to the Canning Factory and retired early in 1995, soon after Scotty passed away.
Following his professional career, Mike pursued his greatest passion, becoming a Stained Glass Master. He founded Sleepy Eye Stained Glass in a small workshop in his garage. With the help and future Stained Glass Master Linda Green they became a force of nature. In 2000, he opened up his store downtown which used to be the old Anthony’s clothing store building. And since, he has produced, repaired, and restored 1000’s of stained glass Church windows and projects.
Mike’s business grew into the largest stained glass shop in the Midwest. He found immense joy in sharing his knowledge and giving classes five nights a week for many years.
Mike also loved to travel. Among his favorite destinations was England, where he enjoyed visiting London and exploring the history and mystery of Stonehenge. Not to forget Sunday Funday was his favorite day of the week.
Above all, Mike will be remembered for his creativity, generosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and willingness to share his gifts with others. Whether through his craft, his teaching, or his friendships, he left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He is so loved and will be so missed.
Mike is survived by his daughter, Deanna Marshall; his sister, Patty Kilby (Don); stepchildren, Chuck and Shannon Hauser, Sheila Hauser, and Kenny Hauser; his grandchildren, Alexsis (James) Lahn, Niki (Aaron) Younquist, Shaun (Rachel) Marshall and Chelsey (Jared) Schommer, Afton Woratschka, Aubrey (Kyle) Borth, Shaelyn Hauser and Masyn Hauser; and his 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by George and Vuela Mason, Michael Scott Mason, Marilee Mason and Katelyn Mason.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Sleepy Eye Event Center. All are welcome. Visitation is from 10am until Noon, followed by a funeral service & eulogies, and a buffet lunch will be provided following interment at Home Cemetery in Sleepy Eye.
We the family wish to thank Gabbi Cox and Gilly for their love and devotion to Dad. He truly was treated like a king. Donut and Diet Coke please.
Thank you to SEMC, Dr. Murthy and all of the wonderful ladies that helped me with Dad these past few years. And to all those too many to count who touched Dad’s life and made it better.
Mike’s legacy lives on in his beautiful restored Church Windows, the students he inspired, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey.
Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.