Michael M. Beseres 1953-2026

Mike Beseres, age 72, passed away gently on Orthodox Easter Sunday, April 12. He was at the St. Cloud Hospital, where his room overlooked the Mississippi River. His life is a testament to all that is good.

Mike was a 1972 graduate of Robbinsdale High School, where he wrestled and made lifelong friends. He grew up with his brother, Steve, and his mother, Anna. He was very proud of his Czechoslovakian heritage. His interests and passions led him to follow the path of becoming an Industrial Arts teacher. He attended Mankato State for one year and graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1979. He later earned his Master’s degree in education from St. Cloud State University.

In 1982, he married his partner and best friend, Peggi, and together they headed north and made their home on the shores of Tame Fish Lake. There, they raised Megan Matey and Samuel Edward while involving themselves in the Cuyuna Range community. He was so very proud of his children. Mike taught grades 7-12 for over 30 years before his retirement in 2012.

Mike could fix anything! As a teacher and craftsman, he shared his skills in woodworking, drafting and design, electronics, photography, welding, and auto mechanics. He was admired and respected by students and colleagues alike.

Mike created and filled the home he shared with his family with beautifully crafted furniture, photography, and music. He was a gifted self-taught guitar player.

After the arrival of his granddaughters, the role of Buppa brought him the most joy. He lit up whenever he could spend time with Olivia Antonette, Maci Jane Jeanette, and Piper Isabelle.

His gentle nature and dry sense of humor were appreciated by all who knew him. He fought so very hard to stay with us as he battled kidney disease. He was tenacious, humble, and the best of humans. He was our captain, a stalwart conduit of kindness, and our rock. He loved the North Shore, Duluth, Bayfront Bluesfest, the State Fair, and his time spent working at Charlie’s Cafe Exceptionale with his mother and brother. He loved his dog, Hazel, fishing, travel, all of nature, being warm, and the lake. He liked his coffee with one cream, one sugar. He made the best pancakes.

He is preceded in death by his mother Anna and grandparents Matey and Anna Farkas. Mike is survived by his wife Peggi, children Megan Martin (Chris), Sam (Maddi), grandchildren Olivia, Maci, and Piper, brother Steve (Mary), nieces, nephews, and a multitude of friends. 

He will be sending signs. Watch for them.

Those wishing to contribute to one of Mike’s memorial funds are encouraged to make a donation to Wild & Free Wildlife Program, Garrison, MN. Or if you prefer to send your donation directly to the family, it will be used to purchase a memorial recognition tile on the Welcome Wall at the Minnesota State Fair.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 21, from 12-3 pm at the Cuyuna Brewing Company, 1 East Main Street, Crosby, MN.