Michael Hanlin 09/11/2026

Micheal Paul Hanlin, 83, passed away September 11, 2026 in Riverfalls, WI. He was born in Minneapolis, MN and resided in Eau Claire, WI.

Mike spent most of his career pursuing his culinary passions, working at Sambo’s, Country Kitchen, Carlos O’Kelly’s, and a host of other restaurants across MN and WI.

Preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Judith Hanlin, parents Eldon and Georgia Hanlin, brothers Eldon “Al”, Robert “Bob”, Neal, and Richard “Dick” Hanlin, and sister Joan Straub (Hanlin).

As a young man, Mike was a champion cyclist of Central High School, even trying out for the Olympics, before setting aside his dreams to take care of his mother. This was only first in a pattern of self-sacrifice, always being there to help friends and family.

Mike took on every new adventure with joy and love, and in 1974 a little blonde girl and her mom came into his life. There was never anything that gave him greater joy than the love he had for Judy and Becky. He did everything he could to insure them a happy existence.

After his years spent in the kitchen, Mike and Judy expanded into the catering business, turning countless weddings, graduations, and community events into memorable moments of connection, love, and of course, great food.

Mike shared his love for photography with Becky, along with their common bond over true crime and history. He also instilled in her solid work ethics, empathy, and how to do what is right even when it’s hard. He taught how every failure and heartbreak only makes you stronger.

In his later years Mike would say the greatest moments of his life were marrying Judy, being Becky’s dad, and gaining a son-in-law, Tyler, who he thought of as just a “son.” It didn’t matter if you were a stranger or a lifelong friend, when Mike spoke it was always about his pride in the three of them.

Survived by his daughter, Becky Hanlin and son-in-law Tyler Erickson, niece Krissi Olsen (Ryan Olsen), and extended family.

In lieu of flowers/gifts please donate to Every Meal Mike’s legacy lives on through his simple belief that food connects us: it nourishes the body and the soul.

Cremation services provided by Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.