Michael John Kieffer

Michael John Kieffer, affectionately known as Mike, was born on October 4, 1961, in Virginia, Minnesota, and departed this world on April 29, 2025, in Wausau, Wisconsin. He was the embodiment of kindness and generosity—a true iron range boy whose spirit was deeply connected to the great outdoors.

Mike was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Heidi Siemon, whom he married in 2016 in a beautiful ceremony in Winona, Minnesota. Their shared love and partnership were a testament to Mike's soul; his warmth and compassion resonated in every aspect of their life together.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Mike understood his remarkable personality—he was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. His unwavering support and dedication to helping others were evident in the countless lives he touched. Celebrated for being sober for 26 years, Mike served as a mentor for many through Alcoholics Anonymous, a proud accomplishment that showcased his strength and commitment to lifting others up.

An ardent lover of nature, Mike found joy in golf, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and fishing. His adventurous spirit was complemented by a fondness for motorcycles—an emblem of his zest for life. In his high school years, he made waves in the swimming pool, and throughout his life, he embraced the beauty of the great outdoors, creating endless memories beneath the vast sky.

He was a cherished brother to Thomas (Robyn) Kieffer and his sister Ann (Tom) Dondlinger. The bond they shared extended to all their family gatherings, enriched by the joy of their siblings’ companionship and love. Mike’s spirit further thrived in the company of his dear nephews, Mark (Rachel Jackson) Brown and Daniel Brown, who were always greeted with open arms and a heart full of encouragement.

To honor Mike's profound legacy, a Memorial Gathering will be held on May 3, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Ascend Funeral Home of Weston, located at 2809 Jelinek Avenue, Weston, WI. Family, friends, and all who knew and loved Mike are invited to come together to celebrate his remarkable life—a life well-lived, filled with laughter, warmth, and a deep-rooted love for those around him.

Additionally, A Celebration of Mike's Life will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 3:30 - 6:00 PM at Casper’s Cherokee of Eagan, 4625 Nicols Road, Eagan, MN 55122. This will be a casual, open house style event to honor Mike with his family and friends. Light hor d'voeuvres will be served.

As we gather to remember Mike, we reflect on the quiet strength he exhibited in every endeavor. He will be profoundly missed but will forever live on in the hearts of so many who were privileged to share in his journey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials made in Mike's name can be made to the family.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. You may sign the family guestbook at www.ascendweston.org.