Michael Henry Springfeldt

Michael Henry Springfeldt, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025 surrounded by his family. Mike was born in Junction City, Kansas on July 22, 1948 to Virgil and Willa Mae Springfeldt.

Mike is lovingly remembered by his children, Stephanie Mounts (Vincent), Ryan Springfeldt, Eric Springfeldt, and Patrick Springfeldt (fiancé, Paloma); his siblings, Matt Springfeldt, Mark Springfeldt (Sandy), and Martha Cheshire (Ed); his cherished grandchildren, Madison Mounts, Parker Mounts, Emma Springfeldt, and Brooke Springfeldt; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Margrette Ann Springfeldt and Mary Garner.

Mike was a 1966 graduate of Bushton High School in Bushton, Kansas, and pursued his education further, earning his degree from Hays College in 1970. Music was one of the great passions of his life. A gifted musician, Mike marched with the prestigious Argonne Rebels Drum & Bugle Corps out of Great Bend, Kansas—one of the founding corps of Drum Corps International (DCI). During his time with the Rebels, he had the privilege of being instructed by the legendary Glenn and Sandra Opie, whose leadership left a lasting impression on him. He later continued his service and musicianship by performing with the United States Air Force Drum & Bugle Corps in Colorado Springs, Colorado—an honor he carried with deep pride throughout his life. He remained an enthusiastic supporter of the activity, watching DCI competitions religiously and sharing his excitement with anyone who would listen.

Mike’s lifelong love for music led him to inspire young musicians as a band director at Liberty Union High School in Baltimore, Ohio. Though he loved teaching, he eventually decided he would prefer to work in the grocery business—a trade while working at his parents’ IGA store growing up. He brought that foundation of hard work and customer care to his roles as general manager for the Kroger Company, PriceChopper in the St. Louis area, and Braum’s in Great Bend. No matter the role, Mike brought heart, humor, and a work ethic that made a lasting impression on those around him.

If you knew Mike, you knew a man who never met a stranger. His warmth and humor made him a fast favorite among friends, coworkers, and caregivers alike. Even after a debilitating stroke left him able to speak only a few words, Mike’s vibrant personality shone through. He always found ways to connect—whether through a quick smile, a well-timed gesture, or an enthusiastic “All right!” He especially loved sending around drum corps videos and impressive musical performances, remaining a lifelong fan and ambassador for the activity he loved so much.

Mike was also an avid sports fan who cheered passionately for the Ohio State Buckeyes, the St. Louis Blues, and—above all—was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Some of the most treasured memories his children have are of attending Cardinals games with their dad, who passed along not only his passion for the team but a love of tradition and time spent together.

Though words fail to fully capture the life and impact of Michael Springfeldt, those who knew him will carry his warmth, humor, and unmistakable spirit in their hearts forever. He was truly one of a kind—and he will be deeply missed.

The family will hold a private memorial service in his honor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Stroke Foundation or to one of Drum Corps International’s programs or scholarship funds—causes that reflect Mike’s journey and the legacy he leaves behind.

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