Michael Donald Schleis

Michael Donald Schleis, loving Dad and Grandpa, was born on November 23, 1951, in Mapleton, Iowa, to Leo and Stella Schleis. He graduated from Harlan High School with the class of 1970.

 On September 19, 1981, Michael was united in marriage to Deb Reid in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Two sons were born to this union: Taylor and Ryan. Mike and Deb later divorced.

 Mike worked at Midwest Welding for a while before starting his trucking career with Triple R Trucking. He drove long hauls to Florida and back, his family joining him on trips to Chicago and California. He also took some time as an entrepreneur, where he built and owned Safe and Sound Storage in Harlan for a few years.

 Mike found his passion in horses and racing horses. He owned and trained horses for many years. When his boys were young, they would join him going to the races, mainly at Aksarben. You would often find him watching sports or horse races. He also loved traveling, including a trip to Thailand. Most of all, Mike loved his family. When the Schleis-side got together, they spent a lot of the time playing cards and sharing laughs. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow up, and attending their sporting events and dance recitals. His 2 sons and his 6 grandkids were his pride and joy.

 Michael passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, having attained the age of seventy-three years, two months, and twenty-three days. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Jim Schleis and John Schleis.

 He is survived by his children Taylor (Ashley) Schleis of Harlan, Iowa; Ryan (Kacie) Schleis of Parkers Prairie, Minnesota; 6 grandchildren: Caleb, Breckyn, Easton, Bowen, Laila, and Reid; siblings Nancy Gagnon of Baldwin Park, California; Patsy (Larry) Adams of Houston, Texas; Jeanie Konz of Houston, Texas; Bob (Laurie) Schleis of Houston, Texas; Richard Schleis of Portland, Oregon; nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.