Michael P. Fogarty, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on September 12, 2026, at the age of 71, after a courageous battle with cancer. A Celebration of Life Visitation will be from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at Martin Mattice Funeral Home in Emmetsburg. Martin Mattice Funeral Home of Emmetsburg is assisting the family.
Born on November 29, 1954, in Storm Lake, Iowa, to the late Terrance “Ike” and Bridget E. Fogarty, Mike lived a life full of warmth, love, and laughter that touched all who knew him.
Mike was the cherished husband of Carol Fogarty, his devoted partner of over 52 years. Together, they raised three sons, Robert (Melanie Dunphy) of Grimes, Matthew (Stephanie) of Madrid, and Mark (Racheal) of Emmetsburg, who each carry forward Mike’s legacy of kindness and generosity.
Mike attended and graduated from Emmetsburg High School. Following his graduation, he served in the Iowa National Guard. His career was marked by his dedication to health care administration, a field in which he and Carol worked side by side for many years. Later, Mike found fulfillment as a maintenance technician at the Wild Rose Casino in Emmetsburg before semi-retiring to open the Fogarty Bait Shop. Here, he combined his love for fishing with his desire to serve the community, ensuring that everyone had access to the supplies needed to enjoy Five Island Lake and its surrounding areas.
An avid fisherman and hunter, Mike found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved going to the casino, driving around the lake each evening, feeding his squirrels, and observing the birds. His quick wit, infectious smile, and talent for making others feel welcome endeared him to all. Mike’s ability to share a joke and lighten any mood was truly a gift, and his kindness left an unforgettable mark on the lives he touched.
Mike is survived by his dear wife, Carol; his sons and daughters-in-law; his cherished grandchildren, Taylor (Rosa), Aiden (Lyzz), Dillon, Hannah, Kolby, Gabe (Julianna), and Connor; and his precious great-grandchildren, Oliver and Isaac. He is also survived by his siblings, Jill (Kevin) Hanson of Graettinger, Iowa, Jim (Jadeen) Fogarty of Tempe, Arizona, Bill (Tammy McDonald) Fogarty of Wichita, Kansas and Joe Fogarty of Jeffersonville, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, Terrance and Bridget, his brothers John and Tom, and several beloved in-laws.
