Mike "Poodle" Reuter

Mike "Poodle" Reuter, age 77 of Hastings, one of the original bad asses of Hastings, passed away suddenly but peacefully on Friday evening, August 14, 2026.

Michael Charles, the son of Charles and Lucille (Radke) Reuter, was born on July 22, 1949, in Hastings. One of eight siblings, Mike spent his entire life in the Cow Town community of Hastings, where he was well known and had many lifelong friends. On March 3, 1979, Mike was united in marriage to Danae Scowcroft in Brainerd. They were blessed with forty-seven years of marriage, three sons, and countless memories along the way.

At a young age, Mike began working for his father at Reuter Drywall and later owned and operated the family business where he spent many years working alongside his brothers, sons, and family friends. Together, they built a reputation for quality drywall and painting work throughout Hastings and the surrounding communities. Mike took great pride in their work, and there was something special about driving through the area and seeing the homes, businesses, and other places where they had left their mark. It was more than a job to Mike; it was a craft he was proud of and a legacy he shared.

When he wasn't working, Mike's greatest passion was being outdoors. Hunting and fishing were a big part of his life, and he spent countless hours in the woods, on the water, and enjoying everything nature had to offer. He wasn't known as "Mr. Walleye" for no reason. Mike had a knack for finding the fish and always seemed to know where the hot bite was. Whether hunting, fishing, or simply spending time outdoors, it was where Mike was happiest and where many of his favorite memories were made.

We all know Mike loved to cook and was proudly known as the "King of Booya." He enjoyed making food for others and was always willing to share what he had prepared with family, friends, neighbors, and anyone lucky enough to be around when something good was cooking. Feeding people was simply another way Mike showed how much he cared.

As a true storyteller, Mike could hold the attention of a room and had some of the best jokes to go along with his stories. He loved visiting with people, sharing a laugh, and taking the time to catch up with friends and family. He had a big heart and gave back to his community in countless ways, often without looking for any recognition in return. If someone needed a hand, Mike was there.

Mike will be remembered for his hard work, his love of the outdoors, his stories and jokes, his generosity, and the pride he took in his family, his community, and a life spent helping others.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jason; siblings, Sandy Reuter and Tommy Reuter; mother and father-in-law, Joyce and Joe Scowcroft; sister-in-law, Linda Rondou; and by his brothers-in-law, Robert Scowcroft and Marvin Warren.

Mike is survived by his wife, Danae; sons, Chris Reuter, Jeremy (Ann) Reuter and Adam Reuter; ten grandchildren; siblings, Linda (Charles) Lowe, Tony (Trudy) Reuter, Bonnie (Tom) Cochran, Dan (Lori) Reuter, and Joe (Wanda) Reuter; and by countless nieces, nephews, extended family members and cherished friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Hastings, with Father David Hennen officiating. Interment will be held at the parish cemetery.

Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation and viewing from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings. Although there will not be a viewing, a memorial gathering will continue for one hour prior to the service at church on Saturday.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.