Michael "Burl" Harold Ives, age 57, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at his home on Pokegama Lake.

Burl was born to Michael J. and Mary F. Ives on September 28, 1966, in St. Cloud, MN. He graduated from Sauk Rapids High School in 1985. Burl attended college in Fergus Falls, MN and then Moorhead State University, Moorhead, MN where he studied Political Science. He then went to work alongside his dad, Mike, in multiple family businesses. In the early 1990's, he started his own eatery, Burl's Chicken and Burgers. He began his career in the hospitality industry, working alongside his wife, and family in 1996. On December 27, 1997, he was united in marriage to Kristine Bidinger in Grand Rapids, MN. Burl served on the Harris Township Board, was finishing his 8th year as an Itasca County Commissioner, served on many boards for various organizations and was an active member in his community.

Burl had a knack for making friends wherever he went. Whether he was snowmobiling, cruising on his motorcycle, fishing, cooking up a storm for friends, or striking up conversations with strangers, he embraced life. Above all, he was devoted to his family.

He is preceded in death by his father, Michael J. Ives, who passed away on September 2, 2024.

Burl is survived by his wife of 26 years, Kristine; his daughter, Samantha Marie Ives (22); his son, Thomas Michael Ives (19); his mother, Mary F. Ives; one sister, Michelle (Guy) Carlson, all residing in Grand Rapids, MN; many nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, September 18, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Timberlake Lodge Event Center, Grand Rapids, MN and will continue at the church on Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grand Rapids, MN. Fr. Blake Rozier will officiate. The burial will be in Itasca-Calvary Cemetery, Grand Rapids, MN. A Celebration of Life luncheon will follow.