Michael Thomas Harrington

Michael Thomas "Mike" Harrington, 81, passed away peacefully at home on May 14, 2026, in Fergus Falls, Minnesota.

Mike was born in 1945 in Sisseton, South Dakota, the second oldest of 14 children born to Marion and James Harrington. He grew up on the family farm outside of New Effington, South Dakota, where he learned the values of hard work, resilience, and caring for others - qualities that would define his entire life. He graduated from New Effington High School in 1963.

After graduation, Mike enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving four years overseas as a Military Police officer. Upon returning home to Minneapolis in 1967, he met the love of his life, Shirley "Shod." The two married in 1968 and went on to share nearly 58 wonderful years together built on love, laughter, loyalty, and unwavering devotion.

In 1977, Mike founded his concrete construction business in Fergus Falls. Through hard work, integrity, and craftsmanship, he built not only a successful business but lasting friendships and deep respect throughout the community. Although he officially retired after 33 years, Mike never truly stopped doing what he loved. He continued working and sharing his craft for many years afterward, spending more than 40 years doing the work he took pride in.

Mike was the perfect mix of toughness and tenderness - strong, humble, hardworking, funny, patriotic, generous, and endlessly kind. As an avid baker, Mike was cooking up a constant stream of cookies, banana bread, and pies for anyone and everyone. His love language was definitely food and whether you were hungry or not, you were going to have a treat.

He enjoyed gardening, building projects, and treasured his weekly Friday visits with friends at Fresh on Friday's at Stumbeano's. But above all else, Mike's greatest joy was his family. He lived for family reunions. His wife, daughters and eight grandchildren were the center of his world, and he was deeply present in every stage of their lives - from the very beginning to his final days. His love extended beyond people, too; he adored his cats.

Mike loved big. He lived fully. He was truly one of a kind - a legend in the eyes of those who knew and loved him. He was the best.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and James Harrington; siblings Jerry Harrington, Loretta Harrington, and John Harrington.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley "Shod" Harrington; daughters Wendy (Kurk) Werner and Jenny (Greg) Stumbo; and his cherished grandchildren Evan, Lauren, Quinn, and Ava Werner; Olivia (Margaret) Stumbo-Turvey; and Robin, Ian, and Caroline Stumbo.

He is also survived by siblings Pat (Helen) Harrington, Mary Winther, Peter Harrington, Linda (Jerry) Aronovich, Jim (Hollie) Harrington, Tom (Annette) Harrington, Will (Gale) Harrington, Larry (Gabrielle) Harrington, Susie Harrington, and Tim Harrington, along with many extended family members and countless friends.

The family would like to thank Ringdahl Ambulance and the Fergus Falls Police Dept. for their quick response and professionalism.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Veterans Affair's Home in Fergus Falls or the OTC Humane Society.

Visitation: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls, with a Time of Sharing at 7:00 p.m.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 1:00 p.m. Sunday, July 26, 2026 at the Pebble Lake Picnic Shelter in Fergus Falls.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com