Michael J. Mcnamara

Michael John McNamara, 68, of Superior and Duluth, died peacefully Monday, November 24, 2014 with his family and friends at his side, after a long battle with diabetes. Mike was born in Superior on November 12, 1946 to Russell and Geraldine (Mickelson) McNamara.

Mike was a graduate of Superior East High School. He also attended the University of Wisconsin - Superior.

Mike worked for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. He served three terms as a member of the Superior City Council. In 1980, Mike was appointed as Executive Director of the Superior Douglas County Development Association. He then took a position as Development Director at The Northspan Group in 1988. Mike became a leading figure in Duluth's economic development efforts as Executive Director of Team Duluth and President of Soft Center Duluth, from which he retired in 2002.

Mike was the grateful recipient of a kidney donated by his friend, David Bruni. Mike considered one of his greatest achievements to be his 26 years of sobriety. As an active member of AA, Mike found and gave support and developed many lasting friendships.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Geraldine McNamara; and a sister, Patricia McNamara.

Survivors include a daughter, Colleen (Cliff) Knettel of Duluth; four grandchildren Jack, Emma, Kate and Finn Knettel; nieces Amie (Jon) Kinne of Corona, California and Lori (Bill) Offutt of Ashland, Wisconsin; four great-nephews and two great-nieces; and many friends.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 6, 2014 in the Downs-LeSage Funeral Home, 1304 Hammond Avenue, Superior and continue until the 11:00 AM memorial service with Rev. Fr. James Tobolski of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church officiating.

Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery at a later date.

To leave an online condolence or to sign the guestbook, please visit www.downs-lesage.com.