Michael Patrick Tracy

Michael Patrick Tracy, lovingly known as Mike Tracy, passed away peacefully in the night at the age of 76. He bravely battled lung cancer after being diagnosed in December 2022.

Mike was born on August 6, 1946, in Ottumwa, IA to Tom and Loretta Tracy. As the oldest of six siblings, he spent most of his childhood around Des Moines, IA. After graduating from Dowling Catholic High School in 1965, he enlisted in the Army Reserves where he served for the next six years. During that time, he began his career with Hy-Vee which shaped the foundation for his future.

On September 16, 1967, Mike married Marjorie Myers in Des Moines, IA, and their union brought forth three sons: Jeffrey Michael of West Des Moines, Steven Patrick of Johnston, and John Thomas of West Des Moines.

Mike flourished at Hy-Vee and established a career in management. While with Hy-Vee, the family lived in Des Moines, Marshalltown and Ames. Mike’s lifelong dream was owning his own business, preferably a golf course or bowling alley. These were his passions, and they brought him great joy. In 1983, Mike and Marj bought Horseshoe Lanes in Adel, IA, where their sons would later graduate from high school. Though not convinced in the moment, his boys would say today that it was the most influential decision of their upbringing. Jeff, Steve and John loved growing up in Adel. After owning Horseshoe Lanes, Mike began to drive for Hy-Vac Laboratory Eggs in Adel. He worked alongside one of his best friends and golf partners. He would drive weekly to the East Coast ensuring that he always made it back in time for his cherished Men’s League Thursday tee time at Hillcrest Golf & Country Club in Adel. Mike was a member at Hillcrest since 1983 and where he spent countless hours.

Mike and Marj divorced in 2000 and he relocated to Waukee, IA. There, he joined Regency Homes as a Warehouse Manager. Eventually, he found his calling as a driver for the Iowa Donor Network (IDN), where he took great pride in the organization’s inspiring purpose and positive impact on the community.  Throughout his career, regardless of his job, Mike never missed his Thursday tee time at Hillcrest.

Mike had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He possessed a genuine warmth and treated everyone he met with kindness and respect. His conversations were filled with laughter and stories, often transforming a five-minute tale into a delightful 50-minute exchange. Mike had an uncanny knack for finding common ground with anyone, anywhere. He derived satisfaction from hard work and relished a good challenge. And as evident by now, he truly loved and lived for the game of golf. Being in Mike’s company meant having a great time because he wouldn’t have settled for anything less. He remained steadfast in his faith and was a devout Catholic throughout his life.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Loretta Tracy.

He is survived by his former wife, Marj Tracy; children Jeff Tracy (Jen), Steve Tracy (Kelly) and John Tracy (Amy); eight grandchildren Emillie, Joclyn, Cory, Nathan, Carson, Megan, Clare, and Jack; sister Liz Stewart (Howard) and brothers Tim Tracy (Diane), Kevin Tracy (Sandy), Brian Tracy (Marcie) and Chuck Tracy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Iowa Donor Network. Please go to www.iowadonornetwork.org for details on how to make a contribution.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM Tuesday, June 13th at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Waukee.  Burial will be at Iowa Veterans Cemetery at a later date. Family will greet friends Monday, June 12th  from 4:00 to 7: 00 p.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home - Adel Chapel in Adel.

“Casual and Golf Attire recommended” for Michael’s visitation. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com