"Big"Mike, 86, beloved Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle and friend to many, passed peacefully surrounded by those he treasured most, his family. His presence will forever be in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. To describe him as "Big" is an understatement. He lived and loved Big. The perseverance and determination to overcome childhood adversity provided him with the motivation to forge a strong and loving bond with family and friends that  continues to be embraced by all.  He is, and always will be, a true inspiration to all that knew him.

Born in St. Paul/Minneapolis Minnesota, the 6 ^th of eight siblings to parents Michael Joseph and Margaret Rauschnot. His life was upended when his mother passed which resulted in he and his younger siblings being  sent to an orphanage. Eventually, as an adolescent, he relocated to California. It was there that he met the love of his life, Marilyn Vallerga at a picnic. After a brief courtship they were married for 66 + inseparable years, literally. Marilyn predeceased her beloved husband Mike on November 18, 2019. The love they had for one another can only be described as selfless and endless.

Mike left to serve his country in the Korean War shortly after marrying Marilyn. For eighteen months, seven days a week, they wrote loving letters to each other. Not shortly thereafter, Mike and Marilyn began their dream of raising a wonderful family of 4  children.  Michael (Julia) Rauschnot, Mark (Cheryl) Rauschnot, Marla (Mark) Carroll, Marcell (John) Chapman, 11 loving Grandchildren, and 10 beautiful Great Grandchildren. There is no doubt that their legacy will continue to grow.

Their long and happy life can be summarized by Alan Jackson's song "Livn' on Love". May God bless you and the beautiful spirits that you are to us all. We love you.

Private Services were held.

Papa

John Deer green and muddy boots,

Strong tough hands, proud of his roots.

When times got tough, he kept his head high,

Keeping his faith and his loved ones close by.

A big strong man, with a heart of gold,

A gentleman who was brave and bold.

Farming, construction, and butchering too,

Ability to naturally shine and wear many shoes

His full face smile and big belly laughter,

Will in each of our memories, live ever after.

Country music dancing and strolls in the field,

He was our night and shining armor and shield

A selfless man who's taught us all about life

Mostly through his limitless love for his wife.

A true hero, a legend, a Papa for the ages,

It's my honor being a part of your life's pages.

Endless childhood memories to fill my heart,

Playing on the farm is where they all start.

Each filled with happiness, hugs and a kiss,

Summer sunshine and picnics I already miss.

Great childhoods start with grandpa's like you,

Who engage and play and enjoy our time too.

I'm eternally grateful for our time here together

My love for you will stay in my heart forever.

~Chelsea