Michael "Mike" Pesola

Michael Emil Pesola was born on August 11, 1960 at Wesley Hospital in Wadena, Minnesota.  His parents were the late Emil and Janet (Wiirta) Pesola. Mike was baptized on October 22, 1961 and confirmed in June of 1975 at the Apostolic Lutheran Church in New York Mills, Minnesota.

He graduated from New York Mills High School with the Class of 1979. After graduation, he was employed on the Niska Ranch in Ottertail. For the past 42 years he has simultaneously worked full time at Lund Boats in New York Mills while running his own farm with his son. 

He was united in marriage to Cindy Kading on September 18, 1982 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham, Minnesota. Their marriage of 20 years was blessed with Evan and Elizabeth.

Mike enjoyed farming, finding places to have great food and have a good time, and driving around the section and checking crops. He loved visiting with family and friends, but he especially loved spending time with his children. His children were his world, and he was theirs.

On October 7, 2025 Mike passed away peacefully at his home at 65 years of age. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Preceding Mike in death were his parents, Emil and Janet; twins, Ross and Ryan; and brothers: Ronald and John.

Mike is survived by his loving children: Evan and Elizabeth (Tony); sisters: Cindy Fox (Jim Peternell) of Shevlin; Juanita (Roger) Grindstaff of New York Mills; Rick Pesola of Embarrass; Ed (Laura) Pesola of New York Mills; Doreen (Jerry) Hoyhtya of Ottertail; Becky Pesola of Henning; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

To view a livestream of Mike's Funeral Service please visit: https://www.nymalc.org/watch-live

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