Michael Fietek

Mike was born in Flensburg, Minnesota, into a large Polish family, the son of Michael Fietek Sr. and Florence Lipinski. He spent his childhood fishing, ice skating, and playing baseball with neighborhood friends-memories he carried with him throughout his life. In 1957, Mike proudly entered the United States Air Force. Following basic training, he was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base, where he met the love of his life, Marlene Sims. Together, they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage, building a life full of travel, adventure, and devotion. Mike and Marlene raised three sons-Steve, Tim, and Eric-and spent many years as an Air Force family. Their journey took them around the world, including five years in Germany, where they traveled throughout Europe, along with assignments in Guam, Thailand, and across the Midwest. Mike served as a weather technician and forecaster at Fairchild Air Force Base, providing critical weather briefings to pilots and crews flying missions worldwide. He especially enjoyed working with the Washington Air National Guard and took great pride in his role. After retiring from the Air Force, Mike continued his career as a civilian forecaster at Fairchild for another 16 years. He loved fishing for walleye, camping with his weather group, and making fishing trips to Alaska with his friend Don. He also cherished time spent at the family cabin near Hunters, Washington, where he hunted, gathered wood, and played cards. On his final day of work, Mike was honored to see his name displayed on the base reader board, congratulating him on his retirement-a meaningful tribute to his years of service. Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Marlene; his sons Steve (Sonia) and Tim (Shelley); his grandchildren Samantha, Michelle, Kevin, Brian, Kyle, Giovanni, Ivan, Adam, Valerie; and 13 great-grandkids. He was preceded in death by his son, Eric. A service will be held at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake on April 17 at 10:15 AM, followed by a luncheon and celebration of Mike's life at the Eagles Pub, 414 1st St., Cheney, Washington. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, caregivers, and neighbors who provided support in Mike's final years, with special thanks to Richard, Judy, and Susan. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. "Cancer sucks."

Michael Fietek

July 16, 1938 - March 12, 2026