Michael Ruzek, 45, Farmington
Michael (Mike) Allan Ruzek, 45, died July 26, 2023, in his home in Farmington.
Mike was born on March 6, 1978, in Austin to Allan Ruzek and Deb Godfredson (McAnally). He is predeceased by his grandparents on both sides of his family.
He is survived by his parents Allan (Cheryl) Ruzek and Deb (Larry) Godfredson and by his daughter Michaela (Talon) Ruzek of Owatonna. He is also survived by his two grandchildren Leyton (5) and Paislee (2 mo.) Mike had a large, blended family and had six siblings: Bryan (Tiana) Ruzek, Nick (Samantha) Ruzek, Ben (Savannah) Ruzek, Josh (Nicky) Godfredson, Ashley (Josh) Wiltgen, Emily (Matt) Mack, and Riley (Cara) Godfredson. He also had many nieces and nephews who loved to play with their uncle Mike!
Mike graduated in 1996 from St. Mary's High School in Storm Lake, Iowa. After graduation, he moved back to Minnesota. Mike always wanted to be in law enforcement. It was always his dream to be a state trooper.
While living in Owatonna, after high school, he spent a lot of time doing ride-alongs with the cops in town. Mike was a “jack- of -all-trades” as they say and had many hobbies. He worked at Hy-Vee and fixed bicycles while in high school. Later he lived on a turkey farm, mixed concrete, drove a school bus and eventually ran his own trucking business which he was very proud of.
In his free time, he loved going up to northern Minnesota to go fishing and hunting. His biggest passion was his love for the Minnesota Vikings. He would go to as many games as he could and if he wasn’t in the stadium he’d be listening to or watching every single week. Michael was always the life of the party and making people laugh. He made it a point to come to every family event he could! There was never a serious moment when he was around; you just couldn’t keep a straight face with the things he would say!
Mike was a kind soul. He’d give you the coat off his back if you needed it! He was strong and stubborn at the same time. He lost a battle to a disease that unfortunately is all too common, but in the end, he just couldn’t fight anymore. He left this earth too soon and will be missed by so many. Mike didn’t want a funeral and certainly didn’t want people crying because he's gone. Mike would want us to celebrate his life, not mourn his death. So, we’re going to celebrate!
In memory of Mike, there will be a celebration of life held at the VFW in Owatonna on Saturday, Aug. 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. Please join us in celebrating the life of an amazing man! Wear your Minnesota Vikings, Twins, or Wild attire for Mike!
Arrangements are being handled by Brick-Meger Funeral Home in Owatonna.