Michael Earl Slaybaugh

A Celebration of Life was held October 1, 2025, in West Fargo, N.D., for Michael Earl Slaybaugh, 68, of West Fargo, who passed away Sept. 23, 2025, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, N.D.

Mike Slaybaugh was born on Sept. 24, 1956, in Langdon, N.D., the son of Alerd and Marie (Heck) Slaybaugh. He was raised and educated in Nekoma, N.D., graduating from high school in 1974. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the Army. Mike then went to North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, N.D., graduating in auto body and welding. He married Kathy Doering on Sept. 10, 1983, and they welcomed a daughter, Jessica, in 1984. He worked in the elevator business for many years and then ended up going into the role of warehouse manager until he retired in 2023. Mike and Kathy were together until her death in 1994. Mike then went on to meet Faye Kinnischtzke, and they married on Oct. 31, 1998. Mike also welcomed Faye’s daughter, Melissa, and Faye’s son, Chad, with open arms as his stepchildren. Mike worked as a warehouse manager for multiple agricultural parts companies over the last 25 years until retiring due to health conditions.

Mike enjoyed woodworking and also anything auto-body related. He also enjoyed going camping. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his daughter, Jessie, and his grandchildren.

Mike is survived by his daughter, Jessie (Jesse) Villarreal, and their children, Alexus and Mason; stepdaughter Melissa French and her children, Stone and Gunner; stepson Chad Miller and his son, Zayden; sisters: Bonnie Hell, Barb (Charlie) Schiestel, and Pat Slaybaugh; four nieces and three nephews; several great nieces and nephews; and many cousins.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Alerd and Marie Slaybaugh; grandparents Charles and Clara Slaybaugh and Christian and Myrtle Heck; wives Kathy and Faye; and brother-inlaw Pete Hell.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center was in charge of arrangements.