Michael William Cleeton, 71, of Monticello, IA passed away on November 24, 2019 surrounded by his family who dearly loved him.

Visitation will be at Peace United Church of Christ in Monticello from 3 – 7 pm on Friday, November 29.  Funeral services will be at Peace United Church of Christ at 10:00 am on Saturday, November 30. Mike will be laid to rest at the Oakwood Cemetery.  Family will be giving memorial donations to various charities close to Mike's heart.

He was born October 4, 1948 in Centerville, IA to Victor and Margaret Cleeton.  He attended high school in Seymour, IA and graduated from Northeast Missouri State (Truman State) in 1970.

Mike was a loving husband, dad, grandpa, brother, son, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife Peggy of 50 years, daughter Michelle (Bret) McDonald, daughter Staci (Bruce) Edwards, son Dustin (Carrie) Cleeton, sister Karen Young, mother-in-law Louise Dustin, brothers-in-law Gary (Mary) Dustin and Larry Dustin and many loving nieces and nephews including special niece and nephew Vicky Decker and Jim Young. Of special note, Mike was a proud and inspirational Grandpa, with eight grandchildren:  Jeff, Tyler, Taylor, Jay, Brayden, Tori, Bryce, and Brynlee. In addition to his parents Victor and Margaret Cleeton, Mike was preceded in death by his father-in-law Ed Dustin, his brother-in-law Bernard Young and his nephew Gary Young.

Mike had a great love of coaching and mentoring people of all ages.  He began his teaching and coaching career in Corydon, IA in 1970.  Before landing in Monticello, there were a few stops along the way including Clarksville, IA and Eagle Grove, IA.   Eventually, Mike and Peggy made their home in Monticello where they raised their family. Mike was a teacher, coach and athletic director at Monticello Schools for 25 years.  Mike formed several lifelong bonds with colleagues including the summer paint crew – Jim, Bruce, and Keith. Even after retirement, he volunteered his time coaching in Monticello and Boone, IA.   He fought for his players and could be extremely competitive.  He believed in each and every kid.

Mike was a devoted Christian and became the pastor for Peace United Church of Christ and served as President of the Monticello Ministerial Association. He will be deeply missed by all who had the blessings to meet, converse, and share fellowship with him through his ministry.

All who knew Mike felt his presence and were made better by his support.  He loved when watching his children and grandchildren participate in various activities.  Mike was the proudest, loudest, most expressive, and supportive person in the crowd.   Mike was there whenever others needed him, and even before others knew they needed him.  He was a selfless giver with a big heart.  He brought his children up right; surrounded by faith and family.  Mike was cherished as a sounding board, always supportive with uplifting advice.