Michael John Woll

Michael "Big Mike" Woll Michael John Woll, known and loved by so many as Big Mike went to Heaven August 31, 2026 at the age of 75. He was born October 24, 1950 in Winona, Minnesota to George and Clara Woll. Mike married his high school sweetheart, Jackie, and for 51 years she has been by his side as they supported each other through whatever came their way. Mike spent his entire career in sales, where his gift for connecting with people and entertaining a room made him unforgettable to those he met. He introduced himself as Big Mike, told everyone they were his favorite, and somehow made each person believe it. He never met a stranger and he worked hard to make the people around him feel good. A big guy with a soft heart, he gave the best bear hugs and even the neighborhood kids adored him and would knock on the door to ask Big Mike to come out and play. A good athlete, a decent golfer and an avid lover of all sports, Mike found joy in competition, camaraderie and keeping everyone entertained. He and grandson Jack loved golfing together and Mike never missed Jack's basketball or soccer games. With grandson Sam, Mike would sit contentedly for hours and watch him fish, or they would enjoy listening to Sam's original songs. Whether it was a game, a match or a concert, there was no seat in the stands quite like the one next to Big Mike. And, rest assured, there will always be a place in the bleachers saved for him. Mike was a devoted Christian whose faith guided him throughout his life. He traveled the country for business, but some of his best times were the simple ones- driving Christy to work and having lunch together. He never turned down a meal at Kate's and loved comparing notes on life in sales. Of everything he accomplished, Mike was proudest of his family. He was the best and most devoted husband to Jackie, a loving father to Kate and Christy, a wonderful brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. And, if only by his own estimation, he was the best Papa in the world to Jack and Sam. Mike was diagnosed with Lewy Body and was studied at the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. Upon his death, his brain was donated to Mayo for further research in hopes of gaining more knowledge about this tragic disease. Mike is survived by his wife, Jackie; his daughters Christy Woll and Kate (Chad) Hetherington; his beloved grandsons, Jack and Sam Hetherington; his brother Jim (Mary) Woll,; his mother-in-law, Bettie Bunke; three amazing sets of brothers and sisters-in-law (affectionately called the outlaws) and all his favorite nieces and nephews. Mike's Celebration of Life will be held at Grace Church in Eden Prairie on October 1. Visitation at 10; Service at 11; Luncheon following. In lieu of flowers, you might consider a memorial to the non-profit Jack and Sam founded, The Rebound Club (reboundclub.com; checks written to TB1 Fund). which sends 20 critically ill children, their families and friends to a Timberwolves game to enjoy time away from the hospital and see the game in a private suite. Or you may wish to support the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (give.mayoclinic.org). Both of these were very important parts of Mike's life.

Michael John Woll

October 24, 1950 - August 31, 2026

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