Michael Dean Wolfswinkel

Michael Dean Wolfswinkel passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on April 27, 1952, in Hull, Iowa, Michael was a proud and devoted resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and most recently Portland, where he built a life defined by love, integrity, and quiet strength.

Michael lived fully, teaching, coaching, building, and leading by example. He showed those around him what it meant to be a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather. In every role he carried, he stood firmly on his principles, guided by integrity and an unwavering sense of what was right.

From an early age, Michael aspired to be both an educator and a craftsman. He had a deep love for woodworking and took immense pride in sharing that passion. Through the work of his hands and the lessons he quietly modeled, he passed on patience, discipline, and dedication. His custom woodworking, mastered with skill and care, was often featured in magazines, a reflection of both his artistry and commitment to excellence.

A gifted athlete, Michael was inducted into his high school’s Hall of Fame and still holds football records more than 50 years later. He went on to earn All-American honors in college, a testament to his competitive spirit and relentless dedication. Whether on the field, on the slopes skiing, out sailing, or coaching from the sidelines, he carried himself with composure and strength. He hoped others would learn from him the value of patience and maintaining a calm demeanor, even in moments of competition or adversity.

Michael faithfully served for many years as a trustee of his church’s session, offering wisdom, guidance, and steadfast commitment to his faith community. His life was one of service, humility, and devotion.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures — a well-timed dad joke, a bowl of ice cream, steak and potatoes, and most of all, time spent with family. His greatest pride was watching his sons fulfill their dreams and celebrating their successes, and in taking his beloved wife, Laura, on whatever adventure she wished to pursue next. His favorite song, “Waiting on a Woman” by Brad Paisley, reflected his deep devotion to his wife and the love he carried for her throughout 52 beautiful years of marriage.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Alvina Wolfswinkel. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Laura Wolfswinkel; his sons and daughters-in-law, Shawn Wolfswinkel and his wife Joni, Dr. Erik Wolfswinkel and his wife Sahar Qashqai; his cherished grandchildren, Lucas, Mila, and Ramsey; and his siblings, Vel Kraft, Laura House, and Mona Wolfswinkel.

Above all, Michael loved his family. He rarely showed anger, at most, a gentle disappointment, but even then, his love was unmistakable and unwavering. He leaves behind a legacy of patience, strength, craftsmanship, faith, and deep, enduring love.

His life was a lesson in devotion, and that lesson will continue through all who were blessed to know him.