On the evening of October 29th, 2022, Michael passed away in his favorite place on earth, the Little Blackfoot, doing what he loved most, hunting with his son, Wil. He was born on January 1st, 1968, shortly after midnight, in Helena, Montana to Susan and Mike Spotorno. Michael graduated from Helena High School in 1986. He married his wife, Leslie, June 15th, 2001.
He had many accomplishments, including building a business and fathering three children. He had a passion for hunting, sports, animals, helping people, and being a dad. He was a great friend to many. For people that knew him, he will always be remembered as someone that would put everyone before himself and do his best at anything he tried. He would light up a room and always knew how to put a smile on your face.
Michael is survived by his wife, Leslie Wilson, children Sarah (Alex, Nova, and Atlas) Koerner, Chase Spotorno and Wil Spotorno, parents Mike and Susan Spotorno, brother Ryan (Drenda, Devyn, and Dylan) Spotorno, sister Wednesday Williams (Shane, Steven, and Connor). Michael leaves behind many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Michael, we love you and will miss you. We are thankful for the short time we had you in our lives. We look forward to the day we meet again.
Donations may be made in Michael’s name to the American Heart Association, Lewis and Clark Humane Society, or any wildlife/wilderness organization of your choice.
A memorial service celebrating Michael’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, November 4th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service at Chubby’s, 9 E. Clancy St., Clancy, MT.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
1 p.m.
Friday November 4, 2022
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday November 4, 2022
Chubby's
9 East Clancy Street
Clancy, Montana 59634
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Denise Price says
Leslie and Wil, I am so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. He was such a kind and funny soul. You are both in my thoughts and prayers.
Donna Link says
Ryan and family, I mourn the loss of Mike. I thought so highly of him as he was a very compassionate, caring and loving individual. It was a blessing for me to know him. I will keep all of you in my prayers and offer my assistance in any way. You both mean a great deal to me.
Peter Dan Sullivan says
Leslie and boys,
My heart aches for all of you. Michael always kept me off balance with his wit and grit. I’ll miss him greatly.
Rob Thomson says
Leslie,Chase and Will
We are so sorry to hear of you loss of Mike.MHDSRIP.
Rob,Paula,Luke and Julia Thomson
John Hunthausen says
Leslie, Mike, Susie, and Ryan – I am heartbroken to hear of Mike’s passing. I’m so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I cherish my memories of being Mike’s friend, teammate, and roommate in high school and college. He was such a loyal and loving friend. I will miss him dearly the rest of my days.
Stacy Fessenden says
Leslie, Will and Chase,
Oh my heart! I cannot believe it. I’m truly thinking of you all. May the strength and love of those around you hold you up and get you through this!! Big, big, BIG hugs!!!!
Frank Mayo says
We love you Mike,
Rest In Peace old friend. We wish to express our deepest condolences to the entire family. Our families go way back in Helena knowing each other since the 1950s. We share the same Italian heritage, and we certainly feel your loss. Michael was one of the most honorable and sincere friends, and he will always be with us.
Bless you in this trying time,
Frank & Cynthia Mayo and Family
Renae Schulte says
Leslie, Wil and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I feel fortunate to have known such an amazing and caring man. He will be truly missed but he will carry on in each of you. Love, prayers and hugs heading your way. Love you guys!
Michelle Lingenfelter says
Spotorno Families,
Our hearts are broken over the loss of your dear Mike. He was a forever friend. We will miss him always and cherish our memories of him. Please know you are in our prayers
Michelle Jamie & Cole Lingenfelter
Joe & Jen Zody says
To Mike’s family,
Words cannot express what a wonderful person Mike was. Always had a smile on his face and just a wonderful soul. We were so very sorry to hear of his passing. May the wonderful memories help you through these very difficult times. Sending all our love, hugs, strength, and support.
The Zody family,
Joe, Jen, Sam, Zach & Tyzer
Donna Hulse says
Leslie, Chase, Wil, and the entire Sportono Family: We are deeply saddened to hear about Mike’s passing. May prayers and strength hold you up in this time of need. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Mike and our many conversations about life and his laughter. He was truly a great guy and family man. He spoke of you all often. Lots of Love coming your way.
Donna and Alan Hulse
Chelsey says
Mike,
I’ll never forget the grace, knowledge and compassion that you shared with me and shaped who I am today.
You will be so very missed by the community, sending lots of love and comforting prayers to your family.
Love,
Chelsey Rucker
Michele, Glenn, and Marian Jacobsen says
Mike , Susie, and Wendy..
Our family sends our thoughts and prayers to yours…Mike was such a great guy, and I will always remember hanging around down on Boulder Ave…and Bryant School…the good old days. ❤️
Jake Brandmeyer says
I’ve never had the pleasure to meet you all. Spot took me under his wing during our State Farm Training. We bonded over basketball and he could not have been more proud of his kids. 5 weeks training for an agency made for a lifelong friendship and I could not be more blessed to have met him. God bless you all!
Shannon McMahon says
Dearest Spotorono Family:
We are deeply saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. May you all find some peace and comfort.
Sincerely,
Shannon, Kaitlin, & Brian McMahon
Peg Chamberlain says
Leslie, Chase, and Wil-
I am holding you in my heart remembering how proud Mike was of his family and how funny, supportive and positive he was in our school community. Sending love and strength…
Mrs. C.
Bud Johnston says
I know Michael through our wives who are childhood friends from NY State. Our first visit to Montana was met with Michael’s (and Leslie’s) hospitality and generosity of time. I remember they picked us up at the airport and on the way home we stopped at a sporting goods store to buy a shotgun. It was done with the nonchalance of me getting a gallon of milk on the way home from work. (Welcome to Montana). With Michael I made an instant friend who shared a love of the outdoors, family and sports. We went on hikes, boat rides on Lakes and through Canyons. He even drove us to Yellowstone. A great trip that I will never forget.
Other trips with our wives to Vegas and Mexico were equally entertaining and memorable. Michael was always willing and up for anything. Energetic, intelligent, polite with high character are words I would use to describe him. He was a good man.
To Leslie, Chase and Will my deepest sympathies.
Betty Huckins says
Michael,
You will be missed forever… This family will never be the same without you. You really were one of the nicest person I have ever know and I am not just saying that because I am your Aunt. Your smile, hugs and love for your family were some of the best things about you.
Betty and Family
Sandy owens says
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Spotorono family. So sorry for your loss.
Bob Pennington says
This is very sad, What a great man and friend. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. RIP my friend.
Ross Corson says
To Leslie and entire Spotorno family,
My sincere condolences on the passing of a truly great human being. We were co-workers for a time at Merck and I will miss his sense of humor and friendship over the years to come. Prayers of peace to you all…Ross and Paula Corson
Lanae Matson Vetsch says
Deepest sympathy to the Spotorno family. I am sadden to hear about Mike’s passing. I remember meeting Mike in high school. In one of our gym classes, we had to line up in order of birthdate(without talking), we didn’t get caught talking to find out what time we were born. I will always remember him. Mike was a great guy and had a great smile. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May happy memories always be with you.
CASS MONGOVEN says
My sincere condolences to the Spotorno Family,
Mike will be greatly missed, I will miss our sports talks at games our kids played together, our hunting conversations were great comparing pictures of our kids success in the field. Mike will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Mike we will see you in the happy hunting grounds.
Cami Stralka says
Leslie, Chase, and Wil, Sarah and family,
I am so sorry to hear of this. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rose Marie Miller says
i just found out today about the passing of this wonderful human being!!! This seems to be a pattern lately, much to my dismay & many others I am certain!!! Michael was another great one gone way too soon & he will indeed be missed by so many of us. Heaven has gained yet another precious Angel!! Blessings to all that knew him. He will be in our hearts & will not soon be forgotten!!!
Mary Whiting says
Dear Cousin Leslie and family, Scott and my hearts are broken for you all. Know that you’ve been in our thoughts and prayers.
Wendy (Smith) Stetzner says
Dear Mike, Suzy, Wendy, Ryan and Family,
I was so shocked to hear the news of Mike. He was a kind sincere, hardworking person, that truly cared about our community, friends and family.
I have so many fond memories of our childhood in the Sixth Ward neighborhood.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.
Billie Teders says
I will always remember the Kading Campground cook outs and at the lake. You always made Don & I feel like part of the family
gatherings. Michael you were a big part of that and you will be greatly missed. I will hold close all those special memories.
Leslie, Chase and Wil, what a great man Michael was. I pray for peace and comfort for you all at this time.
Noreen Raynor says
Mike, Susie, Ryan and Wendy I am at a loss as to what to say. My heart aches for you. He was much too young. He was a good neighbor kid growing up and a fine young man he turned out to be. I am so sorry 😞. God Bless you all.
Joni Pelletier says
To all the Spotorno family. Kevin and I are just heartbroken. What a wonderful man Mike was! Please accept our sincere sympathy and prayers for all. God bless.
Karen Lundin says
Leslie & family,
I’m so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sad and difficult time.
Karen Lundin
Bob & Barb Wilson says
We are so sorry for your loss. Mike was such a nice guy. he will be missed by so many. Glad he was doing what he enjoyed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family
Jeanne Rosati says
Spotorno Family,
My condolences to all for your loss, Michael was a compassionate human being always welcoming me into the family. I have wonderful memories of all the family gathering at Mike and Suzy’s home. Leslie & Michael always offering us a beautiful place to stay.
My thoughts and Prayers are with you all.
God Bless you all. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Another Angel gains his wings.
Kendra Komeotis says
Leslie,Wil & Family
So sorry for your loss will keep you in our thoughts and prayers! We’re so glad to have had the chance to get to know him and your family during baseball season!
Sam Murfitt says
Mike,Susan and family, Judy and I are so sorry for the unexpected passing of Michael. He was a great person! The world needs more Michaels! As a kid I had much the same experience with my own father while out doing what we both loved-hunting! If I can be of any assistance to the family in this regard don’t hesitate to contact me! Once again-we are so sorry!
Ron Iverson says
To all the Spotorno Family: I was so surprised and dismayed to hear of Mike’s passing. I had the privilege of coaching him a little, and he was such a good basketball player. My heart is heavy. I, as many other people, really liked him as a man, and we would trade basketball stories whenever we met. He will be missed by so many people, including your entire family. It was such a pleasure to visit with you a bit at Shelley’s, and thanks for noticing the old man. I really enjoyed the short visit. But, rest in peace, Mike. There just was no man like Spot. My best, in spite of these worst times. Ron
Lowell Peterson says
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. I knew of Mike and his brother Ryan since high school athletics and their legendary success on the handball courts but really didn’t know them. A few years ago I worked with Ryan’s sons Devyn and Dylan and Mike’s son Chase weekly on developing their basketball skills. That is where I got to know Mike and Ryan and they became friends. And by that association the real bonus was getting to know three generations of the Spotorno family that I am thankful to call friends. I lost my mother in a car accident so I know how the grief of a sudden unexpected passing of someone too soon feels like. The best blessing was having a great family and friends for support, which all of you have. Mike will be missed and my thought and prayers are with all of you. Lowell
Tom Pocha says
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Michaels passing ,, I’m beyond words with a heavy heart , You are all in my thoughts and prayers,, I stopped to see him several months ago ,it was good to catch-up , loved his Racks .
Cuz , Tom
Ron Weber says
I had the privilege of growing up with the family, what a great family. I will always have that picture of his smile and how friendly Mike was. My heart is heavy for you all. Prayers to all of you.
Jay Balkenbush says
Ryan and family, I am shocked and so sad to hear of Mike’s passing…many thoughts and prayers for all of you. I will always remember the fun and intense handball matches with Mike and Ryan all over the state of Montana when we were growing up and then in many places all over the Northwest! He was gracious in all aspects of life from sports to family…he will be greatly missed!!
Ryan & Jenni Grovom says
Leslie, Chase, and Wil
We are heartbroken and so sorry to hear about Mike. We have fond memories of Mike when the boys were younger and running around together playing basketball. Leslie, you and Mike were so gracious to take Bridger on long road trips; they had such great times. We always enjoyed our conversations with Mike over the years, such a nice man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family; we will miss Mike. God Bless.
Ryan, Jenni, Bridger, Hudsen
Paul and Becky Donaldson says
We are stunned and so very saddened to hear of Mike’s sudden passing. We will be unable to attend services but please know we carry you all close in our hearts.
Dave Anderson says
Mike
My sincere condolences to you and the rest of the family. I dealt with Michael a few times on insurance issues. He was a straightforward young man and I appreciated working with him. It is a great loss for the community and I know a greater loss for the family.
James Maher says
Leslie and family,
So sorry for your loss of Mike. A true gentleman and loving husband. To me a colleague and friend. Leslie, I know words can’t express my heartfelt condolences. Our medical family offers it’s support for your family. Just ask.
James Maher
Backstroms says
Leslie, Wil, Chase, Susie, Mike, Ryan and families. We’re so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. what a shock but as you say he was doing what he loved. Hugs to all of you..
Denise & Jim Backstrom
Julie (Stinchfield) DeMars & Jim DeMars says
We were so shocked and saddened to learn of Mike “Spot” passing way too soon. We are thankful that he was doing whet he loved on earth and know he is in a better place. We will keep his family and friends close in thought and prayer.
Dan Adams says
My heartfelt condolences to the Spotorno family. I am so saddened for your loss. I have many fond memories of Mike on the handball court both playing and watching him. Mike, Ryan, and Mike Sr. were a handball dynasty especially in the Helena fire department handball court. Mike was a great man, a loyal father, and he will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Dan Adams
Randy Smith says
Leslie, Chase, and Wil,
We were very saddened to hear of the unfortunate passing of Mike. As Grandparents of the Lybbert boys and family, we have become acquainted with Mike at sporting and Montana City School events. We have witnessed his love of family and his son’s, and how he coached, encouraged, and supported them, and their many friends in the community. The untimely loss of Mike has been recognized by the numerous lives he has impacted, and we will miss cheering alongside with him. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Randy & Janay Smith
Lethbridge, Alberta
Butch Kroll says
Butch and Kathy Kroll
Spotorno Families
Our sincerest condolences, we were shocked to hear of Michaels passing.
Mike, I will always have fond memories of our hunting together in the Little Blackfoot.
Steve Armstrong says
Very saddened to learn of Mike’s passing. I had the privilege of having Mike as a student in my American government class during the 1985-1986 school year. What a delightful young man, full of energy and curiosity, a trait that obviously followed him into adulthood and being a husband and parent. It is not surprising to read the many accolades and tributes given by Mike’s friends and relatives. My deepest sympathies to Mike’s family.
Cathy Huntley says
Leslie & Family
I am so saddened to read the passing of your husband. I know all through the years I’ve been going to you, family is everything to you. Your husband sounded like a wonderful man, I’m so sorry for his untimely passing. Sending heartfelt prayers to you & your children.
Moe wosepka says
Leslie. I am deeply saddened by your loss. I will keep Michael, you and your family in prayer.
Moe
William McCausland says
To all of Michael’s family, I’m so sorry for your loss. He was such a wonderful person.
Danielle Young says
We were so very saddened when we heard about the passing of Mike. He was such an amazing, kind man. We hope you all will be comforted in this time of great grief by his wonderful memories. Remember where there is great grief means there was great love. Sending you all strength, thoughts, prayers to help you all through this most difficult time. The Stiles famiy…. Danielle, Eric, Serena, Avery and Hailee.
Kevin Sullivan says
Leslie and Family I am so sorry for your loss! Mike was a great friend. It was always great catching up with him as we both traveled. Thoughts and prayers coming your way!
Kevin Sullivan
Sandra Marcinek says
I was so sad when I heard of Michael’s passing. I did not know him well, but I would have loved to continued on with doing my insurance with him as he was so kind to me. Just such a nice guy. It is so wonderful to see how loved he was. To all of his loved ones, I truly as so sorry for your loss. God Bless and may he RIP (which I am sure he is).
Willard and Mary Patrick says
Just found out about Mike’s passing. I will always remember Mike as a nice person and he always had a smile on his face during the time I knew him at BCBSMT. Leslie – Willard and I are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your children. He is definitely in the arms of Jesus.