Michael R. Slezak

Michael R. Slezak

Iowa City

Michael R. Slezak passed away at home on Nov. 28, 2022, in Iowa City, surrounded by his family, after living with pancreatic cancer for the past year.

Mike was born Aug. 31, 1982, in Iowa City, the son of Steve and Ruth (Raymond) Slezak. Mike graduated from West High and attended undergrad at the University of Iowa. He received his master's degree in urban planning from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. After graduate school, he moved to Chicago to work at a non-profit where he met his wife Hayley. Mike continued his career in government after moving with Hayley to Minnesota for a new adventure, helping others develop skills to find good jobs that paid well, like nursing and construction.

Experienced in construction and carpentry, Mike was known for his ability to build and fix things. He enjoyed adventure and was at home in the outdoors. He was an audiophile and crafted speaker boxes, turntables, and amplifiers to produce the quality of sound that he wanted. Mike was a great cook and bread baker. Mike was an amazing dad to Jean, taking her sledding, reading her countless books, and exposing her to his many passions. Most of all, Mike was loved for his personality - his kindness, witty sense of humor, and his ability to listen and make you feel heard. Mike spent his last months in the company of his family. He was an exceptional person and will be missed by so many.

Mike’s family will deeply miss him: wife, Hayley Crabb; daughter, Jean; siblings, Rachel Slezak and Sandra Slezak; brother-in-law, Kyle Flippo; parents, Stephen and Ruth; and nephew, Art.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mike’s memory are suggested to the National Park Foundation or to Urban Boatbuilders in St. Paul, Minn.

Please continue to keep Mike’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.