Michael Alan Reeson

Michael Alan Joseph Reeson 7/19/1961 -- 2/7/2025 Michael Alan Joseph Reeson, a man of unwavering loyalty, boundless love, and a mischievous smile, passed away on February 7, 2025, after a courageous battle against cancer. Born on July 19, 1961, Mike lived a life full of adventure, laughter, and an unshakable commitment to those he held dear. During his childhood, Mike participated in sports, many of which were coached by his father, as well as Boys Scouts and 4-H. His membership with the Happy Hoppers Rabbit Club began in 1972 where Mike made an immediate impact by winning Best of Show AND Best Opposite of Show his first year, an achievement he repeated many times during his years with the Club. Over the years, Bronco’s Restaurant was a special place for Mike and his family; Mike’s first job and a cherished family get-together. Mike was a frequent fryer at Bronco’s, flipping burgers and enjoying food with friends and customers alike. Mike was a master of many things, but none more so than the art and love of family. Whether he was teaching the next generation how to play “Buck Em Up” or skillfully setting his partners in Pitch, he brought joy and a competitive spirit to every game night. His poker face was legendary, and his signature line “I told you what I had” became his favorite motto. Mike’s love for Coca Cola, Krispy Kreme donuts, and homemade caramels was unmatched, and he famously used those caramels as currency to get his way with friends and family alike. Even though a proud Green Bay Packers fan, Mike’s love for his Steelers-loving niece (Maddy) proved family always came first. He was endlessly proud of his nieces and nephews—Mariah, Glenn, Maddy, Zach, Liz, and Samuel—and he took every opportunity to brag about their accomplishments. His smile beamed when he spoke of them. Mike’s passion for life extended to his work as a diesel mechanic and shop foreman at Fruehauf and Cash Wa Distributing. His love for speed and mechanics also led him to the Stock Car races, where he was a valued member of the Sardeson Racing Pit Crew, and his Sunday nights were spent at Sunset Speedway. But it was on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle where Mike felt most alive, and his visits to Sturgis provided memories and fulfilled his spirit of adventure. Mike’s sisters Shelly and Melanie held a special place in his heart, and he took great joy in causing them grief and humor. He was a loving and encouraging uncle, a trust-worthy brother-in-law, a loyal friend, and a man who always told the truth. Mike’s love for Nebraska Volleyball, a passion he shared with his father, as well as the many dogs he cared for throughout his life, were just a couple of the many ways he connected with family. The last five years of Mike’s life were a gift, filled with the kind of drama and camaraderie he adored. He thrived in the “soap opera” of his building, where he formed deep friendships and found many opportunities to laugh and enjoy the moment. Michael was preceded in death by his parents Lloyd and Beverly Reeson. He is survived by his sisters Shelly (John) Christiansen and Melanie (Steven) Christensen, nieces Mariah (Glenn) Melnick (Greyson and Wrenley) and Maddy Christiansen, nephews Zachary (Liz) Christensen and Samuel (Mattie Moran) Christensen, and many other loving family and friends.

Michael Alan Reeson

July 19, 1961 - February 7, 2025