Obituary of Michael Allen Lake

Michael Allen Lake, 43 of Cloquet went peacefully to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 24, 2002 with his family by his side. He was born March 19, 1959 in Cloquet to Kenneth and Alice (Olson) Lake. He grew up on a farm outside of Wright and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Mike graduated from Cromwell High School in 1977 and joined the U.S. Air Force. In 1981, upon leaving the Air Force, Mike lived in Helena, Montana and attended school to be a jet engine mechanic. The week of Mike's graduation from college he suffered a tragic accident which left him a quadriplegic. For the past 19 years and 1 month Mike has led a courageous life to live independently. The struggles and obstacles he faced with his handicap touched the lives of many, and the examples he set with his uncomplaining attitude will not soon be forgotten. Mike had many wonderful caregivers and community members who have helped him in these efforts. Mike enjoyed trading on eBay and polishing agates. Mike is survived by his parents, Kenny and Alice Lake of Wright; three sisters, Patti (Keith) Switzer of Wright, Cindy Lake of Dickenson, North Dakota and Jill Koivisto of Wright; four nephews, three nieces, two great nephews, many aunts, uncles, cousins and loving family members. Funeral services were held on Sunday, July 28, 2002 in Bethany Lutheran Church in Cromwell. Military Honors were accorded by the Cloquet Combined Honor Guard. Burial was in the Wright Public Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Bethany Lutheran Church, Cromwell. Arrangements entrusted to Northland Funeral Home, Cloquet. To sign the guest book and offer an online tribute, see northlandfuneralhome.com