Obituary of Michael John Vanselow

Michael John (LePorte) Vanselow, age 69, passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, April 3rd, at his home in Plymouth, Minnesota. His passing came after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
 

Born on December 22, 1955, in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, Michael was the beloved son of Joan LePort and was later adopted by Donald Vanselow upon their marriage.
 

A proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Michael earned his degree in Communication in 1979 before pursuing his passion for law at the University of Minnesota Law School, where he graduated in 1983.
 

Throughout his diverse career as an attorney, Michael made significant contributions while working at respected institutions such as the Oppenheimer, Wolff, and Donnelly law firm, the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office where he was appointed Deputy Attorney General, and Medtronic, ultimately establishing his own practice. His dedication also extended to academia, where he shared his knowledge as a law professor and authored several respected law books.
 

In June 1980, Michael married Joni Spies in Hazelhurst, Wisconsin. Together, they lovingly raised three children: Michelle, Jason, and Jesse, before parting ways in June 2016.
 

Michael had a zest for life that was evident in his passions. He found joy in drawing, lake life, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers. His love for comic book superheroes, all things Batman, and the music of Elvis, Simon and Garfunkel, and Whitney Houston brought comfort and joy to his life.
 

He leaves behind a loving legacy, including his children Michelle (Michael) Haggerty, Jason (Ashley) Vanselow, and Jesse Vanselow; six cherished grandchildren; his brother Tommy (Joan) Vanselow; sister Cathy (Danny) MacCharles; his ex-wife Joni Spies; and a host of dear friends and colleagues who will miss him profoundly.
 

Michael will be remembered for his bright spirit, sharp intelligence, colorful wardrobe, and wonderful sense of humor that brought light into every room he entered. His warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed.