Michael Charles Hendricks, of Grand Rapids, passed away on May 24, 2025, at home on his beloved Lake Pokegama.

Born December 18, 1937, to Lavina and Charles Hendricks, Mike grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from Washburn High School. He married Mary Jo Mulcahy on September 12, 1959, and together they raised four children.

While attending the University of Minnesota and after graduating, Mike worked for the Minneapolis Park Board. In 1968, the City of Grand Rapids recruited him to lead the newly formed Parks and Recreation Department. With his dedicated staff, Mike created lasting programs for all ages, particularly children. Many remember the Fun Wagon, which brought summer activities to area schools. He established processes to build and maintain city parks, ball fields, the arena, outdoor ice rinks, and Blandin Beach. He touched countless lives through his work.

A passionate volunteer, Mike served with the Greater Pokegama Lake Association and helped launch The Flotilla, a cherished annual lake event. Committed to water sport and safety, he and his friends founded a youth program to share his lifelong love of sailing. He served on Ski Patrol at Sugar Hills and assisted with plans to build a new church for St. Joseph's Parish. Mike consulted for numerous organizations and helped design Crystal Park in Harris Township, affectionately called "Papa's Park" by his grandchildren. He worked alongside Mary Jo operating The First Grade Restaurant in Central School and spent many happy years working at Bloomers Garden Center.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jo; parents, Charles and Lavina; stepmother, Patricia; brother, Tom; and stepbrother, Mike. He is survived by his children, Anne Marie Gavel (Jim), Jacquie Hendricks (Jan Hix), Stephen Hendricks, and Kate Reschenberg (Tom); grandchildren, Sean Gavel (Abbey), Emily Wade (Mark), Jack Reschenberg (Megan), Lizzie Reschenberg (Andrew Beukelman), and William Reschenberg (Nora Ellingson); siblings, Judy Wanzek, Mary Beth Buckman (Jim), sister-in-law Teal Hendricks, stepsisters Peggy Pomije and Jane Golembeck; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 315 SW 21st St, Grand Rapids, MN, with visitation one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Mike Hendricks Memorial Fund or St. Joseph Catholic Church and School.