Jeffrey Alan Michelson, 63, of Superior, Iowa, passed away suddenly on July 31, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois.
Jeff was born on January 14, 1961, in Estherville, Iowa. He was a loving and devoted family man. He attended Spirit Lake High School before putting in time at Rohlins Construction. However, it was his career as a truck driver that truly defined him. Most recently, he spent 21 fulfilling years at Ahlers Enterprises, where work wasn’t just a task but a part of a family. Jeff shared a special camaraderie with his fellow truckers and the office team, particularly bonding with his boss, Joe, and friend, Kathy, in the office. He was known by his co-workers to be one of the nicest guys to work with.
In his free time, Jeff cherished moments with his family, particularly enjoying Saturday morning dates with his wife Sue to get donuts, coffee, and groceries. Jeff and Sue were married on April 25, 1987,in Huntington, Iowa. Jeff had immense pride in his children, Ryan and Brooke, knew no bounds, and his love for being a grandpa was unmatched. He loved helping his son Ryan work on his race car and cheering him on at the races, as well as taking road trips to Omaha to spend time with his daughter Brooke and granddaughter Aspen. A special family trip to the Omaha Zoo in 2022 brought laughter and joy to the family, encapsulating the love and closeness they shared. Jeff adored his grandchildren and could frequently be found watching cartoons with his granddaughter Aspen, often finding them funnier than she did.
Jeff had a passion for watching racing, especially NASCAR, and enjoyed listening to or watching the Fox News broadcast. He was a tough but loving father, husband, and grandfather, finding immense joy and treasured every moment spent with his beloved dog, Sophie, and his granddogs. While the family joked that he was a proud member of the “Grumpy Old Men’s Club,” those who knew him understood that beneath his gruff exterior was a heart of gold.
Jeff is survived by his beloved wife, Sue (Bueltel) of Superior, Iowa; his cherished children, Ryan Michelson (Ashley, partner) of Estherville, Iowa, and Brooke Michelson of Omaha, Nebraska; his treasured grandchildren, Aspen and Landon, and honorary grandchildren, Devon, Hayden, Kierra and Madelyn; his brothers, Greg (Nancy) and Jon Michelson of Spirit Lake, Iowa, and sister, Kim (Shawn) McQuillen of Monticello, Iowa; and his dear mother-in-law, Juanita “Nita” Bueltel of Superior, Iowa, as well as many other extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Lois (Higgins) Michelson and his father-in-law, Vernon Bueltel.
A Celebration of Life to honor Jeff’s memory was held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Superior City Hall. The event was a reflection of his life, filled with stories and memories shared by those who loved him. Jeff will be remembered for his hard work, dedication, and most of all, his unwavering love for his family. Interment is private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sue Michelson, P.O. Box 61, Superior, IA 51363.
