Michael William Standke

Michael William Standke passed away peacefully at home on October 29, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. Michael was born January 1, 1958 to Raymond Standke and Mary (Merky) Mercedes (Snider) Standke in Owatonna, Minnesota. He met his wife, Brenda Kay (Gustison) Standke at Minnesota State University. They were married July 30, 1983.

He graduated with the “Class of 76” from Owatonna High School and from Minnesota State University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1985 and proudly served his country until he retired as MSgt, Chief of Travel Pay Policy and Procedures, Air Force Accounting and Finance in 2008. His career in the Air Force took him to Elmendorf AFB, AK, Hanscom AFB, MA, Incirlik AFB, Turkey, Osan AB, Korea and DFAS-Denver.

After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his career as the Projects and Grants Financial Analyst with the Colorado Department of Transportation until he retired on July 31, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Raymond, Mother, Merky and Sister, Connie.

Michael was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend to many.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Kay (Gustison) Standke, Aurora, CO, brothers, Ray Standke (wife Meg), Star Prairie, WI, and Steve Standke, Owatonna, MN; Children: Son, Daniel Ray Standke, Parker, CO, Daughters, Stephanie Ann Standke, Portsmouth, VA, and Megan Mercedes (Standke) Strauss (husband Christopher Strauss), Castle Pines, CO. He treasured his time with his kids and loved being “Papa” to his granddaughter, Logan Strauss.

Michael was an avid football fan (Kansas City Chiefs), loved hiking the Colorado Mountains, fishing the lakes of Northern Minnesota, traveling with his wife and sipping fine Tequilla with his friends. He will forever be remembered for his warmth, loyalty and kind heart leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew him.

Michael will be laid to rest with military honors at Fort Logan National Cemetery on November 14, 2024, at 2:30pm with the immediate family followed by a Celebration of Life Ceremony at Peace With Christ Lutheran Church (3290 S Tower Road, Aurora, CO 80013) at 4:30pm with family and friends to include a dinner reception to follow. The family requests donations to The American Cancer Society or Alzheimer’s Foundation in lieu of flowers.

Michael’s favorite Bible Verse is Psalm 23, Verse 6 that reads, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever”.