Michael "Mike" Brickley

BRICKLEY, Michael “Mike”, age 60 of Bloomington, passed away peacefully November 29th, 2022 surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Mike grew up in Inver Grove Heights and graduated from Simley High School in 1980. After adventurous days of traveling, skydiving, partying, and enjoying life as he always did, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) from the University of Minnesota. From there, he went on to have an award winning 17-year career working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Mike lived as a quadriplegic for 41 years. His life was, as he would say, a “fun ride”. From being on the Vikings field during a game, to Tony Oliva in his home having a casual chat, and even Eddie Money signing his cast, he never let his chair hold him back from what he wanted. He loved going outside and soaking up the sun, from cruising down St Anthony Main to walking his beloved dog, Sophie. He also enjoyed watching a variety of sports, participating in fantasy football, traveling, listening to music, and keeping up with the events of the world.

Mike had a lot of fun in life and he worked extremely hard, too. His “ride” was anything but boring. He used the fact that he was in a wheelchair to encourage, and motivate others. To teach, embolden, and inspire those around him. Many will remember his great sense of humor, positive attitude, and can look to him for inspiration when facing hardship.

One of Mike’s proudest accomplishments in life was being a family man; a husband and a dad. It was the one thing that he didn't think he would ever get the chance to be. He was a Son, a Husband, a Father, a Brother, an Uncle, a Friend, a Hero, a Superman, and so much more. He has touched the lives of so many and will be missed immensely.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marlene; friends and “brothers” Monte Armentrout, and Al Hardy. He is survived by his loving wife and “Best Friend”, Brandi; daughter “Dather”, Jessica (Charles) Lee; siblings, Bob (Marie), Jim (Sue), and Mark (Tesa); nieces and nephews, Lydia Alvarez, John (Jen), his godson Luke (Kendra), Dan (Sabrina), Amanda, Alex, Carly (Trent); friend and caregiver, Gedas Sutas; friends and “brothers” Joe Hart, and Dale Ellison, and so many other loving family and friends that he cherished.

A gathering of family and friends will be held Monday, December 5th, 2022, 4:00 – 7:00 PM at O’Halloran and Murphy, 8700 Valley Creek Rd, Woodbury. Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 Visitation will be at 11:00 AM, with the memorial mass held at 12:00 PM, and a luncheon following, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 901 E. 90th St., Bloomington. The burial is to follow at Bloomington Cemetery, 10340 Lyndale Ave S, Bloomington MN 55420.

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