Michael Filholm

Michael Filholm
Brookings
1962-2026

Michael Douglas Filholm, known to family, friends, and community as someone you could count on to help a group, a family, a child or person in need, passed away unexpectedly on May 30, 2026, at the age of 64.
Visitation will be held June 26 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church beginning at 9:30am., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30am. Mike’s family will host a Celebration of his Life at Ray’s Corner beginning at 12:30pm.

Born January 6, in Brookings, South Dakota, Mike entered the world with distinction as the first baby born in Brookings County in 1962. After completing kindergarten, he was diagnosed with Perthes disease in both hips. He spent the next two years living in a wheelchair at the Crippled Children’s Hospital and School in Sioux Falls before returning to Brookings in 3rd grade in braces. He never complained and these experiences helped shape his independence and perseverance. He graduated from Brookings High School and earned a Political Science degree from South Dakota State University. And he was a self-proclaimed genius!!

Above all, Mike was proud of his son, Jacob Johnson-Filholm, who is serving in the United States Navy. His love for Jake was one of the constants in his life, and Mike spoke of him with tremendous pride.

Although Mike raised his son in Texas, he made sure Jake spent time in South Dakota each year with family and friends. Mike would tell you Jacob was his greatest accomplishment in life!!

Mike was also a devoted son. He returned to South Dakota to help his father with locksmithing at the Fixit Shop and took over the business in 2015. Many people came to know Mike through his work and his willingness to help with locks, keys, and emergency situations.

The outdoors played a central role in Mike’s life. He was passionate about Pheasants Forever, where he helped organize fundraising events, annual banquets, and conservation projects. Whether donating equipment or firearms, securing raffle items, or volunteering his time, Mike was always willing to support causes he believed in and help others.

He was active in the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA). Mike had a lifelong love for dogs, especially Weimaraners.

Over the years, he owned many loyal hunting dogs and leaves behind his two faithful hunting buddies, Dealio and Willie.

His other passions included billiards, fishing, and food. In addition to pool league, Thursdays often found him at Skinner’s Pub, where he enjoyed the game and the friendships that came with it.

Mike loved fishing and was a patient teacher to any child interested in fishing or hunting. He took genuine pleasure in mentoring and encouraging young people to enjoy the outdoors.

Mike was an excellent cook who enjoyed supporting local restaurants and trying new places. He was never shy about sharing his thoughts on food preparation, presentation, or service. He enjoyed teasing a smile from servers and was known as a generous tipper.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Doug and Sharon (Ruttum) Filholm; his sister-in-law, Nancy Filholm; and both maternal and paternal grandparents.

He is survived by his son, Jacob Johnson-Filholm; his sister, Jackie (Jim) McCord of Brookings; his brothers, Tony Filholm of Brookings, Pat (Elizabeth) Filholm of Warner Robins, Georgia, and Tal Filholm of Denver, Colorado; along with numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He also remained close to Jake’s mother, LaChelle, and her family in Texas.
Though his passing was unexpected, the memories Mike created and the lives he touched will endure. He will be missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Condolences may be sent to the family through www.rudesfuneralhome.com