Michael Lee Lysfjord

Mike was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota on May 6, 1950. He graduated from high school in Kennedy, Minnesota. After graduation Mike left Kennedy to further his education at the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point where he earned the nickname “Bear”. Mike graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Military Academy in 1972.

During Mike’s first assignment at Fort Lewis in Tacoma, Washington, Mike would meet the love of his life, Debbi, who happened to live in the apartment above him. They were married on

October 13, 1973, in Olympia, Washington. They had a son, Todd, in January of 1975. Mike and Debbi enjoyed more than fifty years together. During those years Mike had a full and rewarding career in the United States Army as a Field Artillery Officer, where he served 20 years and honorably retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Wherever Mike’s travels in life took him, he was known for his amazing laugh, his warm heart, his generosity, and kindness. Mike had a passion for golf, fishing, and he loved to spend time with family and close friends. He is survived by his loving wife Debbi Lysfjord, his son Todd Lysfjord, (wife Jacy Lysfjord), grandson Luke Derouard, granddaughter Abigail Derouard, his sister Michelle Johnson, (husband Ron Johnson), his Aunt Ruth Basgaard, as well as numerous family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles Lysfjord and Harriette Lysfjord, and his sister Vicky Lysfjord of Kennedy, Minnesota.

Mike’s celebration of life will be held on August 3, 2024, at 1 pm at the Red River Cemetery on 180th Street in Kennedy, Minnesota. A reception will follow at the VFW in Kennedy, all are welcome.