Michal "Mike" Barlau

Michal “Mike” Barlau passed away Monday, July 22, 2024 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, MN. Born in Yakima, Washington on November 25, 1971, Mike spent most of his life living in Duluth. He developed and strong and spirited love of all things Duluth and Minnesota sports. He is now amongst the many fans to know the unique heartbreak of being a die-hard Vikings fan; witnessing the Minneapolis Miracle being as close as he got to celebrating a MN championship. A devout fan and long-time season ticket holder of the UMD Bulldogs Men’s Hockey team, Mike was on-hand for their successful Frozen Four campaign in St. Paul, MN in 2018. His passion for sports and family lead to him being a staple at his nephews’ and niece’s sporting events; rarely missing a game, match, recital, or competition. Often attending many double headers and, along with his mother, being a highlight of many out-of-town trips and bus rides. Mike was a seasoned veteran of many metal and rock concerts; sharing his passion with his nephews and niece and bringing them to many large concerts. Barlau, as he was known to coworkers, was a long-time Director of the multi-Emmy Award winning Good Morning Northland and even longer time employee of WDIO TV, quietly taking pride in simply providing the public with the News.

Mike was predeceased by his father and mother, Duane and Maria Barlau, favorite uncle Del Barlau, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his sisters Lucy Skurich, of Duluth, MN; Kat Markovich, of Cloquet, MN; Shelly O’Neil, of Minneapolis, MN; nephews Bradford and Matthew Skurich, niece Rachel (Nathan) Schultenover, and countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and aunts in his beloved Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico. Along with his faithful companion, Lady.

Visitation 10 AM until the 11 AM Mass of Christian Burial, Saturday, August 3, 2024 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Duluth, MN, with a private burial in Guadalajara, MX. The family sends a sincere thank you to the staff of St. Luke’s ICU. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth, or your local animal shelter. Arrangements by Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home.