Memorial

Michael Edwin Duroe, born February 22, 1955, passed away July 6, 2018, after battling a glioblastoma for nine months.  He died peacefully.  He is survived by children Adyson Marie (11) and Benson Cooper (7) Duroe of Cedar Rapids, and his soulmate Lisa Ikola.  Survivors also include parents Ed and Alice Duroe of Charles City, Iowa, and his four brothers Scott, Steve, Brian, and David, along with their families.  He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends.

For over 40 years, Michael excelled as an athlete and coach at every level of wrestling.  He helped shape the success of USA Wrestling for 23 years, serving as an associate coach on 6 consecutive Olympic teams and on several men’s and women’s world teams.  Michael was proud to serve as the first USA women’s freestyle wrestling team coach.  He was Cornell College’s most successful wrestling coach in history with multiple All-Americans and team titles.  As a long-time coach for his beloved Hawkeye Wrestling Club, he coached, developed, and mentored several world champions.  He received numerous recognitions for his contributions, including three Wrestling Hall of Fame inductions at the National and college level.  He taught his athletes the determination to win, but above all, to be good, kind, and compassionate human beings.  He has touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who know and love him.      

Thank you to the doctors, nurses, and support staff at the University of Iowa Hospitals, and everybody at Cornell College.  We are very appreciative of the love and care given to Michael by the staff of Unity Point Palliative Care and Hospice, along with all the wonderful friends who have supported him throughout this challenging battle. 

As Michael wished, there will be a private family service.  Details of a public memorial celebration will be made available when they are complete.

In recognition of Michael’s life and contributions, memorial donations may be directed to the Mike Duroe’s Fight to Pin Cancer Fund at www.USWrestlingFoundation.com/pincancer.