Michael Hehn

Michael Edward Hehn, age 61, passed away on October 1, 2026, from complications related to long-standing rheumatoid arthritis. Though his passing leaves a profound sadness in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, his life was one filled with compassion, laughter, adventure, and an extraordinary ability to make others feel seen, valued, and loved.

Mike was a truly special soul. Funny, loyal, caring, positive, and kind, he had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life. He engaged with everyone he met, often bringing a smile, a laugh, or a little silliness into an ordinary moment. His enthusiasm for life was contagious, and his genuine interest in others made people feel as though they mattered. He had a way of making friends wherever his journey took him, and those friendships became some of the most treasured parts of his life. To know Mike was to experience his warmth, his generous spirit, and his remarkable ability to make people feel welcome and appreciated.

A Life of Caring for Others

Mike's passion for caring for people was woven into the fabric of his life. He graduated from the University of Mary with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and dedicated many years to serving others as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit. Working in the ICU required strength, compassion, and dedication, qualities Mike carried with him throughout his nursing career.

As a traveling nurse, Mike had the opportunity to explore new places, meet people from different walks of life, and build meaningful connections along the way. His travels led him to fall in love with Hawaii and Palm Springs, California, two places that held a special place in his heart.

In 2016, Mike retired from nursing to pursue another calling: helping people live healthier, more balanced lives as a nutrition and fitness trainer. He continued doing what came naturally to him—encouraging others, sharing his knowledge, and motivating people to take better care of themselves. Through exercise, nutrition, and self-care, he inspired others to recognize the importance of their own well-being. For Mike, health was about more than physical fitness; it was about embracing life, nurturing the body and spirit, and finding joy in the journey.

A Love for Water, Nature, and Healing

Water was one of Mike's great passions. An avid swimmer and diver, he spent many summers working as a lifeguard at the YMCA. He also competed on the Jamestown, North Dakota, swim team. His love for swimming reflected a lifelong connection to movement, vitality, and the natural world.

Mike's love for Mother Earth was an important part of who he was. He felt a deep connection to nature and pursued a path of holistic healing by studying Reiki and becoming a Reiki Master. His interest in wellness extended beyond fitness and nutrition to the balance of mind, body, and spirit. He believed in caring for ourselves, respecting the world around us, and finding ways to bring greater peace and healing into our lives.

Whether through nursing, fitness training, Reiki, or simply offering a kind word and an encouraging smile, Mike found meaningful ways to share his gifts with others.

The Love That Meant the Most

Among the many things that brought Mike happiness, his love for his mother, Billie, and his beloved dog, Zeus, held a special place in his heart. The love he carried for them reflected the tenderness beneath his humor, enthusiasm, and playful spirit.

Mike treasured the friendships he formed throughout his life, especially those made during his travels and adventures. He understood that the people we meet along the way often become an irreplaceable part of our story. He nurtured those connections with warmth, loyalty, and a genuine interest in the lives of others.

Mike had a special way of making people feel loved and valued. He could lift someone's spirits, encourage them when they needed motivation, and remind them to find joy even in life's difficult moments. His positivity was not simply something he expressed; it was something he shared. He gave it freely to the people around him, leaving behind countless memories of laughter, kindness, encouragement, and love.

A Lasting Legacy of Love

Mike's passing is a heartbreaking loss for his family, his many friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His journey was marked by caring for others, pursuing his passions, exploring the world, and building connections that made life richer for everyone around him.

Although rheumatoid arthritis brought challenges and suffering into his life, it will not define his story. He will be remembered for his generous heart, his infectious enthusiasm, his silliness, his unwavering kindness, and his commitment to helping others live healthier and happier lives.

Those who loved Mike will carry him forward in the memories they cherish, the lessons he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the kindness they pass on because of him. His influence will continue in every person he encouraged to exercise, eat well, practice self-care, embrace nature, or simply believe in themselves a little more.

Mike is survived by his sister, Mary Nelson; his nephews, Perrin Job (Cheri) and Patrick Job (Mandi); and several additional nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Ernie Hehn; his mother, Billie Hehn; his brother, Lawrence (Larry); and his sister, Katherine (Kitty) Hehn.

A memorial service celebrating Mike's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on October 24, 2026, at Bismarck Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Saint Mary's Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Furry Friends Rockin' Rescue, in honor of Mike's love for animals and the compassion he carried throughout his life.

Until We Meet Again

Mike's life reminds us that the true measure of a person is not simply in the years they live, but in the lives they touch and the love they leave behind.

For those fortunate enough to call him a friend, Mike was more than a friend. He was a source of encouragement, laughter, loyalty, and light. He was someone who made ordinary days brighter and reminded others that caring for one another is one of life's greatest gifts.

Saying goodbye to someone like Mike is never easy. There will be moments when his absence feels overwhelming, when a memory brings both a smile and tears, and when the world feels a little less bright without his familiar presence. Yet, in those moments, may we find comfort in remembering how he lived, how he loved, and how generously he shared himself with the world.

May Mike now rest peacefully, free from pain and suffering. May he find the same peace and healing that he spent so much of his life helping others discover.

You were loved, Mike, more than words can express. You will be missed more than words can say, and you will never be forgotten. Your laughter, kindness, and beautiful spirit will live on in all the hearts you touched.