Michael James Kanieski, 72, of Zwolle, died Saturday, December 19, 2015 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Mike was born February 12, 1943 in Hibbing, Minnesota to Michael and Frances Shega Kanieski. He completed his education in Hibbing, graduating in 1961. He enlisted in the Navy and spent that time in Beeville, Texas. He returned to Hibbing after his service and worked in the iron mines and in mining related businesses. In 1966, Mike married Patricia Deutsch of Hibbing. They have three children, Michele Kanieski Sutherland, Patrick Kanieski and Jennifer Kanieski DeJoy. Mike’s mother, Frances Kanieski, assisted him in raising the children from a very young age. Michael was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Frank and Frances Shega; paternal grandparents, Anton and Margaret Kanieski; mother, Frances Shega Kanieski; father, Michael Robert Kanieski and a daughter, Tracey Hunter Christoff. His survivors include his wife of 27 years, Susan Burns Hunter Kanieski; children, Michele Kanieski Sutherland, of Clermont, Florida, Patrick and wife, Jennifer Kanieski, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gregory Hunter and wife, Janna of Hibbing, Minnesota and Jennifer Kanieski DeJoy of Prior Lake, Minnesota and grandchildren, Parker and Emily Sutherland of Clermont, Florida and Madyson and Mason DeJoy of Prior Lake, Minnesota. Mike also leaves behind two pets on the front porch, an English Setter, Willow and Labradoodle, Oliver. Mike was a selfless and humble person. He loved Bluegrass music and lived his life as if it were a Bluegrass tune. A memorial service in honor of Mr. Kanieski was held on December 28, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Zwolle with Father Tim Hurd officiating. Online Condolences may be made to the family at www.warrenmeadows.com.
July 16, 2026
