Michael Thomas Morris was born to Tom and Maxine (Evelyn) Morris in Clear Lake, Iowa on November 18th, 1956. Mike grew up on the Southside of Des Moines and attended Christ the King Catholic School. He graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 1976 where he was a proud member of the undefeated Maroon Magic football team. In 1978 he furthered his education by earning an Associate Degree at Des Moines Area Community College.
In 1980, Mike started his career at Pittsburg Plate Glass (PPG) where he discovered his talent in the glass industry as the warehouse foreman. He devoted over 46 years to the business as it became Glass Professionals and later Manko Windows. Mike's ability to foster a sense of belonging through mutual respect, along with his phenomenal work ethic and easy-going nature, made him the perfect fit for his career. After years of honing his craft, he became the go-to person to solve tough problems and was more than willing to share his vast knowledge. He thoroughly valued the lasting friendships he developed at work while being a loyal employee.
Mike cherished his family time, was an avid boater, and a lifelong member of the Des Moines Power Boat Club. His favorite place and second home was the Boat Club, whose members were like family. He had the patience and passion to raise up the next generation of "River Rats" alongside his two children Anna and Sam. If he wasn't at the Boat Club, you could find him playing power volleyball at the YMCA, watching the Dallas Cowboys, playing cards, or enjoying the company of his many friends.
Mike and Yvonne met in 1986 and their first date was at his beloved Boat Club. They married on June 13th, 1992 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church. They shared over 40 years of life's ups and downs by loving their way through. Mike's calm demeanor and steadfast devotion complemented Yvonne's passionate and perfectionist nature. Together, they cherished raising their two children while instilling the values of their faith. Mike's greatest joys were his wife, daughter, and son. They proudly sponsored and attended many St. Anthony's and Dowling functions, including sporting events, concerts, Boy Scout adventures, award ceremonies, as well as dance competitions. Their blessings were many and life was good.
Mike persevered through life's hardships of losing dear loved ones too soon, and recovering from severe health events by always keeping a positive, can-do attitude. Through it all he maintained his zest for life and treasured every sunny day with his friends and family on the Des Moines River. Mike was as genuine a friend as one could ask for and he was rewarded with many loyal friends in turn.
Mike passed away at home, in the arms of his loving wife on January 21st, 2026 at the age of 69. His love, loyalty, kindness, and generous spirit will be remembered and missed by many, but his legacy will live on through us.
He will be forever cherished by his wife Yvonne, children Anna (Jaymee) Highcock, and Sam Morris, sisters Vicki (Trevor) Hart, and Kathy Morris, twin sister Michele (Harry) Hillaker, sister-in-law Radona (Mark) Morris, brother Kevin (Diane) Morris, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Those he will meet on the other side include brother Mark Morris, brother-in-law Tim Lightfield, sister-in-law Teresa Lightfield, his parents Tom and Maxine Morris, and Sandy, Mike's beloved dog.
Services will be determined at a later date when the weather is warmer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
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