Mike passed away Monday morning, Dec. 21, 2020, at his home in Fairmont. Lakeview Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Fairmont is assisting the family with arrangements.

Mike was born June 5, 1951, in Fairmont, Minn., to William and Marie (Duffey) Small. Growing up, he was active in the Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduating from Fairmont High School in 1969 he went on to attend St. John’s University where he graduated with a double major in mathematics and accounting in 1973. While at St. John’s University, Mike was in the U.S. Army ROTC program and, while fulfilling his commission in Oregon, attained the rank of Captain. After completing his term of service, he moved back to Fairmont, Minnesota where he joined the local Army National Guard unit, opting to follow the non-commissioned officer track in order to be closer to his fellow soldiers. After 26 years of service to his country, he retired from the Army National Guard at the rank of Staff Sergeant. On April 8, 1978, Mike was united in marriage to Linda (Furstenberg) in Fairmont. Mike and Linda made their home in Fairmont and were blessed with three children, Mary, Sarah and Matthew. Mike worked at Total Comfort Systems and later Fairmont Foods, from where he retired. Mike was a member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Fairmont and received the Ad Altare Dei church award. He served for many years as a youth firearms safety instructor and was active in local conservation clubs and projects. He loved hunting and the outdoors and was an active member of Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever. He had a keen interest in art and enjoyed travelling with his wife, Linda. Mike also enjoyed finances and investing. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and ability to connect with people on a variety of topics.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Linda Small; three children, Mary Small, Sarah (David) Duda and Matthew (Nicole) Small; four grandsons, Ethan, James, Charles and Virgil; brother, Kent (Julie) Small; sister, Kathy (Joel) Mathews; numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Marie Small; and brother, James Small.

www.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

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