After a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer, Mike Dettlaff passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on April 9, 2020. Michael Paul Dettlaff was born on May 16, 1958 to Ernst and Gertrude (Stoffers) Dettlaff. As a teenager, he began working at Hardees where he met the love of his life, Barbara Murphy and they were married on May 23, 1981. He retired from Montgomery KONE, where he made many life-long friends. He was an incredible husband, son, brother, uncle, friend, and co-worker, but the greatest joy of Mike’s life was being called “Dad” to his two daughters, Katie & Kim and “Opa” to his grandkids Kaitlyn, Sam, Maicey & Kamdyn. His favorite things to do were cheer on the kids in their various activities, travel, have family meals, or play with his sweet beagles, Murphy & Winnie.
Mike was a driving force in the creation of Above the Barre Dance Academy and he touched the lives of thousands of dancers and their families over the years. He loved nothing more than the joy and laughter that filled the walls of that building and the joyous hellos to every student and parent.
During his life, everyone who met him loved him - he never met someone he couldn’t strike up a conversation with. Mike had the kindest heart and was known for his never-ending willingness to help someone in need. He had a quick wit and the very best laugh. He loved his family and friends with his entire heart and selflessly gave of his time and energy without question.
Those left to honor his memory are his wife Barb, his daughters Katie (Kevin) Rokusek and Kim (Rob) Munn, and grandchildren, Sam and Maicey Munn and Kaitlyn and Kamdyn Rokusek. His siblings John (Pat) Dettlaff, Sue Schoo, and Judy Koehler, along with many cherished nieces, nephews and lifelong friends. In his immediate family, he is preceded in death by his parents Ernst & Gertrude Dettlaff and his brother-in-law, Don Schoo.
The family would like to thank the countless medical professionals who made this incredibly difficult cancer journey slightly more comfortable, specifically his oncologist, Dr. Sy and his team, as well as his amazing primary care doctor, Dr. Treiber and his nurse, Sarah. Due to current restrictions, a public celebration of his life will be held at a later date. The family appreciates all of your love and support at this time.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Project Purple (pancreatic cancer research) or the Ohl Strong Pancreatic Cancer Support & Awareness Foundation.
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