Michael Daughton

Wednesday, January 3, 2024 11:12 am

Michael Ray Daughton was born to Max and Doris Daughton on Nov. 17, 1944.  He made his appearance in a Burlington, Iowa hospital. Later he and his parents moved to West Des Moines. His early education was in the Catholic school system, and he graduated from Dowling High School in 1962. Following graduation, he attended Loras College in Dubuque for one year before transferring to Drake University in Des Moines, where he graduated with a pharmacy degree in 1970.

He married Carole and together they raised their children, Shawn, Nancy, and Steven. After moving from Hubbard, they settled into Decorah, which was the perfect place for them all to thrive. Mike worked in a local pharmacy and then started and managed Medicap Pharmacy for many years.

Besides husband, father, grandfather, pharmacist, and friend, Mike was so much more. He was a quiet observer of many things. Not being a chatty person, one would have to slow down and listen to him tell about the birds he watched, the garden flowers he grew, and about the many, many trees he planted and nurtured. Music, particularly folk, was a joy to him. He researched the lyrics of his favorite songs and knew the story behind them all. When listening to them, he worked very hard to cover the deep emotions they stirred. Through the years, his family grew, and eight grandchildren came along, followed by three great-grandchildren. He was a fantastic Easter egg hider, fire builder, fisherman, and cat magnet!

After retirement, his health slowly began to change. He was diagnosed with an untreatable and progressively debilitating disease. Mike handled even this with grace and calm. Mike passed away on New Year Eve’s morning with his family close by his side. We mourn the passing of this gentle soul.

There will be no formal services for Michael at this time. Helms Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.