Michael "Mike" J. Birkett

Michael “Mike” J. Birkett, 69, a lifelong resident of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at UnityPoint Finley Hospital, on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on May 1, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Military Honors will be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard and the American Legion Post #6.

Mike was born on June 7, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Joan Zwack and Paul Birkett. He grew up alongside his brothers, David, Greg, and later Cris (Purcell). He attended St. Anthony’s and graduated from Hempstead High School. Soon after, Mike proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. As a member of the 2nd Armored Division—nicknamed “Hell on Wheels”—he served as a Military Police investigator until his honorable discharge in 1977. During his time in Texas, he took classes at Central Texas College before continuing his education at the University of Iowa, and later the University of Dubuque.

In 1980, Mike married the love of his life, Cheryl (Specht). Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter, and family, raising their three children—Nicole, Brett, and Blair—who were the light of his life. Mike was present in all the moments that mattered, big and small. He supported his children in their many activities, cheered them on at sporting events, and created lasting memories through family vacations—from camping trips to Disney World, Canada, and what he fondly considered “Mecca”—Lambeau Field and the Packers Hall of Fame. Sundays were often spent on family drives to unknown destinations, simply to enjoy time together. He was a steady and caring presence, always offering guidance, helping before being asked, and checking in when work took him away. When his grandchildren were born, Mike became the proud and devoted grandfather he had always hoped to be.

In 1984, Mike began his long career with the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier. His dedication to his work and fellow employees led him into union leadership. In 1986, he was elected president of his local branch, serving in that role for a decade. He also served as Local Business Agent from 1991-1995 and again from 1999-2009, and as President of the Iowa Association of Letter Carriers from 2003 to 2009. As an Arbitration Advocate, he traveled extensively, representing and supporting postal workers until his retirement. In 2014, Mike fulfilled a lifelong dream when he was elected National Business Agent, moving to St. Louis to serve in that position until his retirement in 2022. Along the way, he helped thousands of union members and received numerous honors, including induction into the Iowa Letter Carriers Hall of Fame in 2011 and the Dubuque Area Labor Hall of Fame in 2023.

Beyond his professional life, Mike was deeply committed to his community. He was an active member of the Dubuque County Democrats central committee and served as a delegate at several state conventions. He participated in multiple “Get Out the Vote” efforts, served as a district labor coordinator in 2008, and advocated for labor issues in both Des Moines and Washington, D.C. In recognition of his dedication, he was named an Honorary Colonel in the Iowa National Guard by Governor Chet Culver.

Mike will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 46 years, Cheryl; his children, Nicole Birkett of Dubuque, Brett (Kerri) Birkett of Independence, Kentucky, and Blair (Tye) Birkett of Dubuque; and his cherished grandchildren, Lincoln, Florence, and Loretta, whom he loved dearly. He is also survived by his brothers, David (Choe) Birkett of Dubuque, Greg “Pete” (Sherri) Birkett of Durango, Cris (Jackie) Purcell of Durango, and Chad Klein of Dickeyville; brother and sister in-laws Jack & T.D. Specht, Steve and Tammy Specht, Angie & Redelle Lawrence, his nephews Ben Birkett, Andrew Birkett, Hunter Specht, John Lawrence, Lance Lawrence, and nieces Samantha (Adam) Birkett, Natalie Bartman, Lidia Lawrence, McKenzie Specht; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan (Bob) Purcell; his father, Paul (Eileen) Birkett; his grandparents, Frank and Marie Zwack and Don and Maryel Birkett; and many beloved extended family members.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dubuque Fire and Rescue, Dubuque EMTs, and the staff at Finley Hospital for their valiant efforts.

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