Michael George Slagter

Mike was born in Oskaloosa, lowa, to George and Laura Slagter. He graduated from Oskaloosa High School in 1965 and went on to earn his degree from lowa State in Mechanical Engineering. He spent more than 30 years with 3M in St. Paul, MN working as a mechanical engineer and machine designer. And Mike just wasn't an engineer by trade; he could fix literally anything. He was the handyman's handyman, and there was rarely a problem he couldn't figure out or a project he wasn't willing to tackle.

After retiring from 3M, Mike met Colleen McDermott, the love of his life. They were married for 25 years, eventually moving from Minnesota to lowa, where they made their home together in Clive.

Mike was a devoted Christian and longtime member of Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. His faith was reflected not only in what he believed but in how he treated people. For many years, he volunteered with the church's furniture ministry, delivering furniture to individuals and families coming out of homelessness and helping them to make a new place feel like home. He always gave everyone he helped a free Bible. Mike always told Colleen, "I help people, that's what I do." And he did.

Mike never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, and usually did. He was generous with his time and talents, quick to lend a hand, and truly the kind of person who would give someone the shirt of his back.

He was also an avid NASCAR fan and had the sore neck to prove he had watched more than his share of left turns.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, George and Laura Slagter, his Grandparents, and numerous Aunts and Uncles. He is survived by his wife, Colleen McDermott, his children, Jennifer Fisher and Chad Slagter(Emily), his grandchildren, Connor Beltz, Tegan Slagter, and Mason Slagter and his brother Lee(Jan) Slagter, and their family.

Mike will be remembered for his faith, his generosity, his remarkable ability to fix just about anything, his sense of humor, and above all, the genuine interest he took in the people around

him. He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and countless people whose lives were better because Mike took the time to talk, help, or simply be there.

A memorial service celebrating Mike's life will be held at 11:00 on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines, lowa, followed by a luncheon. The service will also be live streamed at: https://wdm.lutheranchurchofhope.org/funeral- livestream.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lutheran Church of Hope, specify for free Bibles.