Michael A Dutton

Michael A. Dutton passed away Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at Mayo Health System, La Crosse. He was born the 5th of 10 children to Eldon and Harriet (Fish) Dutton on April 18th, 1950 in Sparta, WI.

He lived his childhood in Angelo, WI and moved to the "Big City" of Sparta when he was in Jr. High. 

He graduated from Sparta High School with the class of 1968.  After high school, he began his military career in the U.S Marine Corp.  After serving in the Vietnam War, he came home to pursue his future.  He went to work at the Equipment Concentration Site (ECS) at Fort McCoy as an automotive supervisor.  He remained there until his retirement.  

In 1972, he married Gail Harrie, and they were blessed with two children, Matt and Kylee.  

In 1990, he was called back to duty to command the 343rd Transportation Team in Desert Storm and Desert Shield.  He was proud he brought the entire team home safely.  

Mike lived his entire life in Sparta.  He enjoyed the good things in life like hunting, fishing, golfing, playing softball, and spent many hours riding the highway on his Harley Davidson motorcycle.  He enjoyed a good card game and spent an hour or two at the casino.  There was nothing more that would bring Mike joy than the grandkids visiting.  He would tell them stories, teach them life lessons, measure their growth on his cane, and turn a blind eye while they went into the cupboard for treats!

Mike played a key role in in Sparta's youth baseball program, helping many young boys pursue their love of the game.    He was very proud that Matt stayed active in the game and absolutely beams while watching Kellen and Reece carry on the tradition.  He was introduced to the game of hockey by the boys and learned to love that sport too.  He was so happy that Gavin is taking up golf.  Mike was especially proud that both of his kids chose educational careers and chose to shape the lives of many children.  

Mike had a kind heart and always remained humble.  He would give a person the shirt off his back and help anyone in need.  He had quite a sense of humor and brought a smile to the face of many people.  He was kind and giving - just ask the ducks!

Mike is survived by his wife of 51 years, Gail, his son Matt and family, Kay, Kellen, and Reece and his daughter Kylee and her son Gavin.  He is further survived by sister Elda (Gary) Hinch, three brothers, Stephen (Joyce McCredden), Joe, and Tim, and many nieces and nephews.  He is further survived by a boat load of friends!

Preceding him in death were his parents Eldon & Harriet Dutton; brothers John (Joanne), Kenny (Vicky Jo), and Jeff Dutton; sisters, Diana Streeton and Barb (Ron) Rohn; sister-in-law, Lena Dutton; and nephews, Tracy Streeton and Adam Rohn.  

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 18, 2023 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Reverend Randy Williamson officiating. Burial, with full military honors provided by VFW Post 2112 and American Legion Post 100 of Sparta, will be at Woodlawn Cemetery, Sparta.

A visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, September 17, 2023 and from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Monday both at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children in Mike’s honor. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

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