Michael Stoelk
May 16, 2020
Michael Stoelk, 66, passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. He was born in Muscatine, Iowa, on October 14, 1953, to Harold and Kathryn (Weber) Stoelk. Michael grew up in Wilton, Iowa and graduated from Wilton High School in 1971. He attended Muscatine Community College, graduating with an Associate’s degree in 1973.
Michael drove semi-truck for Wendling Quarries for six years. In 1980, he joined the Davenport Fire Department where he worked for 26 years. He retired as a District Chief in 2006. In 1984, Michael married the love of his life, Phyliss Bonjour. She brought in her two children, Tammi and Craig, who filled his life with joy and made his world complete.
Michael enjoyed many hobbies including fishing, hunting, golf, softball, and boating. He lended a helping hand on many construction projects from roofing to building decks for his friends and family. Michael was diagnosed with MS in 2001 and CHF in 2014. He was eternally grateful for the assistance they returned to him as he needed it.
Michael is survived by his wife, Phyliss Stoelk; son, Craig (Kerri) Perry; daughter, Tammi (Tom) Brown; grandchildren, Eryn Perry, Evan Perry, Sophia (Ryan) Engleman, Riley Brown, Noah Brown, and Archer Brown; great-granddaughter, Bergen Engleman; siblings, Tim (Janet) Stoelk, Sue (John) Severs, and Beth (John) Sperstad; uncle, Wilber (Bessie) Stoelk; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, May 22, 2020 at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home, 105 4th Street SW.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League in loving memory of Michael.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Joy Burr
05/22/2020
My sincere condolences to the family of Mike. Sorry to hear this sad news. I can still hear his laughter when he was at the house with my brother Rick. Rest in peace Mike.
Jeff Barnes
05/21/2020
It was so sad to hear of Mikes passing. We made some good memories during our early days together on the fire department. Mike always liked to have fun away from the job, but when called upon he never backed away from the toughest challenges, facing them with his characteristic courage, determination and enthusiasm. He was a unique guy, and I'm very proud to have known him.
Lance Van Fossen
05/21/2020
Phyliss and family, im so sorry to hear about Mike. Me and a few of the boys were just telling old FF stories and Mike was brought up while talking about the old softball team. We were asking if anyone had seen or heard from him. If there's anything you may need, let me know. Sincerely, Lance
Mark Knouse
05/20/2020
Phyliss and family. So sorry to hear about Mikes passing. He was a great man, friend and mentor. We had many great times during our years in Scouts. There are still many of those stories being told. Take care and God Bless.