Michael Leroy Stene, Detroit Lakes, MN, formerly of Ada, MN, passed away Saturday, February 29, 2020, at Essentia – St. Mary’s Hospital in Detroit Lakes, MN, after complications from surgery.
Mike was born July 27, 1948, in Ada, MN, to Marjorie and Albin Stene. He grew up on the family farm in Anthony Township. He attended school in Ada and graduated in 1966 at the height of the Vietnam War. He was drafted, and chose to enlist in the Air Force. He was stationed in Denver, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. He also served overseas in Thailand. After serving four years, Mike returned home and got a job in Crookston where he met his first wife, Gay. Once married, he got a job with Xerox where he became the best of friends with Larry Knepper. After his divorce, Mike left Xerox to begin a painting career with a friend of Larry’s. The three of them then relocated to Albuquerque, NM, where Mike began a painting and remodeling business with his brother, Brian.
When in Albuquerque, Michael met the love of his life, June. After some time, Mike and June bought a house in Los Lunas, NM. They started a foster home for kids that eventually shifted to a care home for elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities. Mike loved working with people and had found his passion. Mike later returned to school and became a licensed massage therapist. June did the same, and they helped people feel better for the next 25 years. They practiced in New Mexico, Alaska, and Idaho and finally returned home to Ada where he and June started M&J Massage on East Main.
Mike retired from his practice a few years ago after suffering from a minor stroke. He continued to enjoy his hobbies and time with June and his family.
Mike is survived by his wife, June; siblings, Peggy (Dennis) Gordon, Thief River Falls, MN, Jim (Linda) Stene, Ada, MN, and Brian (Tami) Stene, Inver Grove Heights, MN; and two grandsons, Scott Dewhirst and Quinn Conver. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Albin and Marjorie; and step-daughter, Yvonne Gerrad.
Funeral: 2:00 PM Monday, March 16, 2020, at Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Home, Ada, MN.
Visitation: One hour before the funeral at Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Home, Ada, MN.
Burial: East Marsh River Lutheran Cemetery, rural Halstad, MN. (At a later date)
