Mike Elwell

Mike A. Elwell

Age 59, of Cottage Grove

Passed away suddenly at his home on Thursday, September 12, 2013. Preceded in death by son, Jeffrey; father, Duane; step father, Brad Olson; in-laws, Don and Irene Mercereau; and aunt, Louie. Survived by wife of 37 years, Donna; son, Mike (Gwen); daughter, Jamie (Tyler) Jones; granddaughters, Gabby, Kali, Noel, and Harper; mother, Marlene Olson; siblings, Rocky (Will) Layland, Bradley Elwell, Billy (Cindy) Olson, and Sandy (Jim) Meyer; nieces, Lauren (Alan) Aery, Shawna Layland, Crystal Olson, Rachel Olson, Bailey Meyer, and Mikenna Meyer; great niece, Kimberly; great nephews, Dalton, and Jesse; as well as many other extended family and friends.

He will be remembered not only as Mike, but also Big Mike, Santa, and Pappie. He enjoyed garage sales, hunting, fishing, NASCAR, shopping, and tinkering around in the garage. He was also a collector of collectables. Even though Mike had many hobbies which he enjoyed, he cherished the time spent with his granddaughters and over 40 years being Santa. Most recently Big Mike worked for the University of St. Thomas after retiring from Northwest Airlines; previous to that he worked for American Hoist. Throughout his life he was also very active in the Masons, Shriners, Eastern Star, and North Star Santa organizations. Big Mike will be greatly missed; he was the best husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, father in law, and friend anyone could ever ask for. He truly loved life and lived it to the fullest, may he rest in peace.

Visitation 4-9 PM, Tuesday, September 17, 2013 at KOK FUNERAL HOME, 1201 Portland Ave, St. Paul Park and continues 11-12 PM, Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at church. Funeral Service 12 PM, Wednesday at NEWPORT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 1596 11TH Ave., Newport. Private interment at Newport Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.