Michael Jay Lanphere

After a long illness, Michael Jay Lanphere passed away peacefully at home on May 22, 2026.

Mike was born in Aug 1958 to Richard and Marilyn (Toppert) Lanphere in Morrison IL and grew up in Prophetstown IL with his family where he enjoyed a small town farming childhood.

He joined the US Army after high school, something he loved being a part of. He was first stationed at Helemano Military Reservation on the Island of Oahu in the mess hall where he became one of the shift leaders and supervisor. Later he was stationed at Vint Hill Farms in Virginia before transferring from the mess hall to recruiting, which he loved the most.

Despite having to leave the army due to illness, he loved his time in the military and was extremely patriotic. His passing on Memorial Day weekend was very appropriate.

Mike lived all over the world but called the Midwest home. He loved to ski and fish and yard work. One of his favorite places to ski was in beautiful Colorado where he lived for a time with his wife Kathy, who he first met while they were stationed together in Hawaii.

Mike is survived by his wife Kathy (Hier) Lanphere of Fergus Falls MN, daughter Adora Lanphere (husband Anthony) of Covington WA, sister Kathy (Lanphere) Schradeya (husband Frank) of Rock Island IL, brother Tom Lanphere (wife Renee) of Prophetstown IL, numerous nieces, nephews, and beloved German Shepherd Nora.

Committal Service - Sisseton-Wahpeton ND. Memorial Service Information to follow.

Assistance provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com