Michael James Haley

Michael James Haley, 79, of Bismarck, ND, passed away on Sunday, October 14, 2018, at the family home in Bismarck. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 19, at 11:00 am at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 519 Raymond St., Bismarck, with Rev. John Paul Gardner officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, October 18, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church with a prayer service to follow at 7:00 pm. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the services at the church. Mike was born in Duluth, MN, to Michael and Francis Haley on September 11, 1939. He graduated from Minneapolis Southwest High School, where he played hockey for the legendary coach Dave Peterson, who later coached two US Olympic teams. Mike graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth where he played goalie and was team captain and MVP. He met his bride of over 53 years, Margaret (Midge) Shepard, in Duluth who also attended UMD. They were married on December 4, 1965, in Duluth, MN. Mike and Midge were blessed with their son, Darren Michael Haley, in April 1972. Mike went to work for GPM, Inc. in 1977 and this career brought his family to Bismarck, ND in 1981. He was the definition of a sales professional, who thought of his colleagues and customers as true friends. Mike coached hockey in Bismarck at many levels over 30 years and impacted many young hockey player’s lives. He was very proud of his son, Darren, who got the chance to play hockey at the University of Wisconsin and rarely missed a game. Mike was passionate about golf and spending time with his friends and family on the links. His golf buddies from Riverwood were some of his best friends. Mike never missed an opportunity to spoil his only granddaughter, Reagan. They shared a passion for hockey, golf, and ice cream. Mike is survived by his loving wife, Midge Haley; his son, Darren and Michelle (Fettig) Haley; his siblings, Patty (Tom) Kelley, Peggy Haley Kepner, Kathy Haley, and David Haley; his beloved granddaughter, Reagan Haley; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Francis Haley; and his sister, Collen Seabloom.