Michael Stoddard

Michael G. Stoddard (74), of St. Paul, passed away Monday July 3rd, in his Maplewood home. Preceded in death by father, Donald Stoddard Sr.; mother, Goldie Weisner; stepfather, Kletus Weisner; and brother, Kevin Stoddard. Survived by his wife, Carol Stoddard; 4 children, Stacy (Travis) Lenz, Chris (Angie) Stoddard, Sarah Stoddard, Becky (Mike) Strauch; 7 grandchildren, Tianna, Danica, Mariya, Luna, Austin, Gus, and Callen; Brother, Don; and many other friends and relatives.

Mike was born July 22nd, 1948 to Donald and Goldie Stoddard in St. Paul, MN. He graduated from Washington High School in St. Paul and attended the University of Minnesota for 2 years before enlisting in the US Navy. He served from 1968-1972. Shortly after enlisting he was deployed to Vietnam and then sent to Hong Kong and Mediterranean before coming back to the US. While in the Navy he was able to see many countries across the world.

Shortly after returning from his service, he met Carol Bunde. After only a few short weeks, they became engaged and were married in 1974. Mike worked for Whirlpool Corporation, and after 10 years when the factory was moving out of state, Mike had a decision to make. Move to Kentucky with Whirlpool or take a position offered to him by Garelick Manufacturing. He decided to stay in St. Paul and accepted the job offer with Garelick as a tool and die maker, where he stayed until he retired in 2010 after 26 years of service.

During their marriage they were blessed with 4 children: Stacy, Chris, Sarah, and Becky. Mike referred to the time raising his children as the "absolute best years of his life". It was through his children that he got involved in the Boy Scouts of America. He served many roles from den leader to being a District Commissioner for the Greater Eastside District. Mike was also active in the church, volunteering and serving on the church council as President of Bethany Lutheran Church in St. Paul.

Mike was an avid bicyclist and loved spending time outdoors camping with his family and friends, until his health prevented him from doing so. He was known to be stubborn as a mule, with a loud voice and a short temper, but was always there for someone in need. He also had a great sense of humor and was always able to make you smile.

In 1987 he joined the Kipp-White VFW Post 1171 in St. Paul where, most recently, he proudly served as the Quartermaster. He was a proud man who loved to serve his family, friends, and country.

Mike was also a proud Papa and was blessed with 7 grandchildren; Tianna, Danica, Mariya, Luna, Austin, Gus and Callen; and 1 bonus granddaughter; Adryiana, whom he loved to spoil and watch grow up.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday July 11th, 2023 at House of Prayer Lutheran Church, 6039 40th St. N., Oakdale, MN 55128. Visitation to start at 10AM. Service at 12PM. Private Interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice in Michael's honor.