Final Salute

Michael Wayne Bartlett, age 55 of Rockford, MN, passed away on March 22, 2025. He was born on August 14, 1969, in Duluth, MN, to Ronald and Arlene (Poferl) Bartlett.
He attended Proctor High School and graduated with the class of 1987. In his youth, he was involved in civil air patrol where he developed his love of aviation. He earned his degree in industrial engineering from the University of Minnesota Duluth before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He attended officer candidate school in Newport, RI to become a civil engineer corps officer in 1993 and served until 2000 when his rank was full lieutenant.
Following his service in the military, Michael was deeply committed to sustainability and eventually started his own business called SCIpact – a green energy contracting company. He was a sci-fi enthusiast and an avid reader who loved to immerse himself in other worlds as well as the history of our own. Michael had a deep appreciation for travel, always seeking out new experiences, even if it was for work. He had a love for plants and animals, which reflected his caring personality.
Though he faced internal struggles throughout his life, Michael maintained a natural ability to make friends wherever he went because of his kind heart, a sharp sense of humor, and an easygoing personality that put people at ease. He was hardworking, extremely intelligent, and always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh.
He is preceded in death by his brother, Paul Bartlett.
Survived by his children, Meghanne (Austin) Bartlett-Chase, Evan (partner Kalleigh Betz) Bartlett, and Abbott Bartlett; parents, Ron and Arlene Bartlett; and many other relatives and friends.
Memorial Service will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM with visitation beginning one hour prior at The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville (300 Main Street N, St. Michael, MN).
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family who will make a collective memorial donation to MN350–a climate and clean energy advocacy group.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to
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