Michael Arthur Bosanko

Bosanko, Michael Arthur Age 86, of Bloomington, passed away peacefully January 20, 2016. Preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Sally H. Bosanko, parents, Paul and Blanche Bosanko and sister, Anne B. Green. Mike was a lifelong Twin Cities resident and graduate of Blake School, where his father taught world languages. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a B.A. in Education and a M.A. in American Studies. He was a member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. Mike began his teaching career in Redwood Falls, followed by a short stint at Breck School. He taught Social Studies for the next 28 years in Bloomington, primarily at Penn Junior High School. He was active in the Bloomington Teachers Association, serving as vice president and president. He was a passionate environmentalist throughout his life. Mike was a member of the Bloomington Natural Resources Commission founded in 1965, serving as its first chairman and then as vice chairman. During this time, the Commission received the National Wildlife Federation's Conservation Organization of the Year award (1967) for its groundbreaking efforts in protecting the environment. Mike was a member of the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission for 17 years and served as both a board member and president of the Friends of Minnesota Valley. This organization was instrumental in the creation of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in 1976. In his later years, Mike served in important positions in the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota and the Lake Minnetonka Association. Mike was also active in the Republican Party, Common Cause of Minnesota, and in many philanthropic endeavors. He was an ardent tennis player, playing until age 81 and serving as captain for senior tennis teams. He was an enthusiastic sports fan, music lover, history buff and world traveler. Mike and Sally enjoyed attending OLLI senior classes, and were great supporters of the Guthrie Theater and the University of Minnesota School of Music. Both he and Sally loved spending summers with family and friends at the family cottage on Lake Minnetonka. Michael is survived his children Michael D. (Marge) Bosanko, Paul D. Bosanko and Margaret B. (Taylor) Werness; grandchildren Christine, Nicholas, Brendan, Raina, Aidan, Rory, Quinn and Elise; and many beloved nieces, nephews and longtime friends. Memorials preferred to Friends of the Minnesota Valley or MicroGrants. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 28, 11:00 AM at the Minnesota Masonic Home Chapel, 11501 Masonic Home Dr. in Bloomington with visitation one hour prior to the service. Washburn-McReavy.com Werness Brothers 952-884-8145

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Michael Arthur Bosanko

January 20, 2016

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