James "Mike" Harrington

MIDDLETON - Capt. James “Mike” Harrington, age 83, of Middleton, passed away on Tuesday, June 28, 2022.

Mike was so intelligent, kind, and cared for people, animals, flowers/gardens, etc. He was selfless and never had a bad word to say about anyone. He was passionate and got so much enjoyment from teaching high school social studies/economics in Madison for 27 years. He was proud to serve in the U.S. Navy for over 27 years and retired as a captain of an Intelligence Unit.

Mike absolutely loved trains and anything to do with them. He not only collected antiques but also volunteered with the Lake States Railway Historical Association. He loved to travel in the U.S. and different countries with his wife, Donna, friends, and even supervising his students on educational trips.  

He enjoyed nature - field flowers, gardening, watching and identifying birds, including sandhill cranes in their backyard, and feeding squirrels and chippies off the side porch.

Mike was admired for his accomplishments but most of all we were honored, thankful, grateful, and blessed to have had him for our father, husband, brother and friend.

Mike lived with Parkinson's disease. The disease is cruel and merciless, as with other diseases, and was difficult to watch his decline and to lose him more everyday but we know he's in a peaceful place now. We are remembering all the great, fun times, and all the positives in his life knowing that he went to heaven to join family and friends who passed before him. May God bless his soul.

Mike is survived by his wife of 43 years, Donna; daughter, Jody (Tom) Quella; sister, Linda (Mike) Leggett; and brother, Tom (Kathy) Harrington. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Heidi; niece, Stephanie Leggett; and his parents.

A memorial service followed by military honors will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022. A luncheon will follow at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be gifted in Mike’s name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD  21741-5014. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761