Michael E. Hadaway

Michael “Mike” Hadaway of Winona, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the age of 62, following a hard-fought battle with cancer and complications related to treatment.

Mike was born on April 29, 1963, in Morris, Illinois, to Judith (Judy) and Garold (Gary) Hadaway. He grew up on the farm in Minooka, with his brothers and sisters, where he developed a strong sense of community, a solid work ethic, and a deep faith. He excelled at sports, particularly football, where he played linebacker. He also cherished time spent with his friends and life on his family’s farm. Mike worked hard on the farm with his father and volunteered at the local fire department until he passed his EMT classes and started to work on the ambulance in the Joilet, Illinois area. It was on the ambulance he met a paramedic (Mark Oglesby) who became one of his best friends, and he also met his future wife, Sheila. After getting married in May of 1991, they moved to Olympia fields and shortly after Mike received his associates degree in Liberal Arts from Prairie State college. Further college was put on hold after the birth of their first child, in January 1991. Eventually, they settled in Winona, Minnesota and he was a stay at home dad for their 6 children.

Mike will be remembered most for his humor and sarcasm, his care for the country in which he was born and its politics, and, most importantly, his unwavering willingness to help others and his dedication to fatherhood. He could befriend anyone who crossed his path, regardless of opinions or appearance. His impact on those who knew him will never be forgotten and will be felt for years to come.

He will be missed by his mother, Judy; his spouse, Sheila; and his children: Tim, Andy, Jenny, Steve, Lexi, and Kelli. His father, Gary, and his brother, Patrick were waiting to welcome him home.

A celebration of life will be held at Aces Garage Bar and Grill in Minooka, Illinois from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on January 25, 2026. Rather than expressing sadness at his passing, Mike requested that friends and family share stories and enjoy good food together. The family also extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mike’s friends, Maria Reyes and Taylor Meives, who sacrificed significant time from their busy lives to help care for him and keep him company during a very difficult chapter of his life. Their kindness, optimism, and exceptional care over the past few years are something the family will always remember with deep appreciation.