Obituary
Michael Lee Stone
Mike was born September 1,1942 in Dawson Minnesota to Willard and Ann (Crouse) Stone and passed away in his home surrounded by family on January 9, 2025, at the age of 82.
He married Judy Manee in 1960, and they had 4 children: Patti, Loren, Julie and Greta. They later divorced and he married Linda Krause (nee Tucker) June 16, 1982.
Mike had a variety of jobs over the years but retired from the State of Minnesota Highway Maintenance department after a 25+ year career as one of the best snowplow drivers in the La Crescent MN shop.
He was preceded in death by his son Loren and a great grandson, John David Trautmiller.
He is survived by his wife Linda Stone (La Crosse), daughters Patricia Schipp & Greta (David) Grabiel of New Mexico, Julie (Dan) Ferguson of Bangor WI, Dawn (Ken) Metzger of Melrose WI and Amy (John) Nordahl of Somerset WI, 14 grandchildren and
many great grandchildren.
Mike had some good stories to tell about his rodeo days. He had and broke saddle horses for his family and the occasional friend or customer. He taught his children to ride at a very young age and those days in northern Minnesota are some of their best
childhood memories. Mike was active in AA (alcoholics anonymous) and had 45+ years of sobriety. He was a natural leader who started 2 different sober motorcycle clubs, the Freeway Riders and the Fellowship. Many members are still sober today and some
credit their sobriety in part to Mike’s influence and advice over the years. He also belonged to the Vulcan Riders Association, Brothers of the Third Wheel and was Linda’s support member in Women On Wheels ® . Motorcycling was his life. Mike taught Linda to ride and they rode their motorcycles all over the United States for as long as he was able, often camping in State, County and National Parks. Motorcycling was a family affair too and many miles and events were shared with his children and grandchildren, tho his favorite and most frequent passenger may have been his dog, Buddy. He also loved Arizona and put on a lot of miles walking solo in the Sonoran Desert. He proudly referred to the Superstition as “his mountain” and treasured his post-retirement winters in the “Valley of the Sun”.
There will be no public service at this time.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting, CouleeCremation.com.
Condolences Linda & to Mike’s entire family. He was certainly “one of a kind” and a kind that can be admired for the many achievements in his life & that of helping others. Gene & I both had many fond memories of Mike & missed our friends Linda & Mike a whole lot when we moved to Janesville but periodically through the years were able to touch base again. Sobriety & motorcycling were our awesome connections to Mike. He will be missed.
Linda I am so sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for you. Please accept my sincere sympathies for you and the kids. I am hoping you contact me when you need some time with an old friend. Memories are healing and you and Mike had many. Hugs and love coming from me. Take care💕
Linda, I was honored to spend time with Mike, which mostly consisted of watching lots of football games. Mike had told me stories of his snow plowing and horse experiences. Culver’s burgers, fries and malts were our meals of choice. I am missing our talks Linda, and a big hug to you for letting me get to know the both of you. So sorry and thank you for the memories.
Dear Linda, My sincere condolences to you and your family. Cherish your memories of your time with Mike.
Linda and family, It is sad to hear of Mike’s passing. I remember the many fund raising riders you two worked on to better others
As a Blue knight we rode on many of these rides. Mike was a great guy, liked by many. Andy Truscott Blue Knights Wisconsin VIII LaCrosse
Linda and family, so sorry for your loss. Treasure the memories.