After a long and valiant struggle, Michael passed away peacefully on January 22, 2018, at age 69. He suffered complications resulting from a fall in August. Michael was preceeded in death by his mother, Eileen (Manahan) Hlohinec and his father, John M. Hlohinec. He will be dearly missed by his sister, Sharon Morganti (Raymond), his brothers Mark and John (Sue) Hlohinec, and his significant other, Kathy Betz, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
Mike was born in Ann Arbor, Mich., and graduated from Northville High School. He went on to serve four years in the U.S. Navy. After his Naval Service, Mike studied nursery and landscaping at Michigan State University. In the ‘70s he moved to Minnesota and worked in the nursery and landscape business. Eventually he built a home in Chatfield, where his mother was born and raised. He retired from the mail department at Mayo Clinic in 2014. Mike enjoyed country living, observing nature and wildlife, landscaping, chopping wood, bird-watching, reading, and music.
Mike was a fan of the Vikings, Twins, and college football. In high school he lettered in basketball and golf. Mike was a good golfer and won the family championship one year. He was a runner and enjoyed biking later in life.
As a Christian, Mike was comforted by the many cards and prayers that were sent his way. He sponsored children through the Unbound Catholic Organization and was a lifetime member and volunteer of the Disabled American Veterans.
Mike’s smile, encouragement, love, and kind spirit will be missed by all who knew him. A memorial service and visitation will be held on Monday, April 9 at Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield between 5-7 p.m. A committal service will be held on April 10 at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Cemetery in Preston. Mike’s family is thankful for the outpouring of support.
Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory of Michael, please visit RileyFuneralhomes.com.