Dr. Mike Fideler

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”   -Helen Keller

Dr. Sylvester Michael Fideler died peacefully on May 7, 2025. He was 91 years old.

Born to Sylvester and Clo Fideler in Remsen IA on October 7, 1933, ”Mike” loved playing baseball and growing up in their small rural town with older sisters Edna Mae (Wiedenfeld) and Darlene (Morony) and brother Ty Fideler.

In 1955 he married his high school sweetheart Ethelen Rose Pottebaum and they made a home in Spencer IA eventually building a family that would include six children. They were married for 69 years!

He completed undergraduate studies and dental school at the University of Iowa and was a lifelong Hawkeye fan and benefactor. All six of his children graduated from the University of Iowa after being infected with Hawkeye Spirit!

Mike & Ethie moved their young family to Amarillo TX where Mike was a Dental Officer in the US Airforce. After service Dr. Mike, along with his brother Dr. Ty Fideler started their dental practices in Spencer IA in 1960 where he became a cornerstone in the culture, social life and philanthropy of the area that included his beloved Lake Okoboji.

“Giving Back” was a paramount theme in Mike's life and he exemplified graciousness in all of his endeavors. He was an active member in the Spencer Chamber of Commerce and was awarded the Jack Wendel Memorial Award for Outstanding Volunteer. He was a regular participant and board member of Spencer Golf & CC. He was a fixture at Sacred Heart Church and an active member of Knights of Columbus, taught CCD classes and volunteered for anything needed at Sunday Mass. He was active in Kiwanis and Arts on Grand. In retirement Mike enjoyed driving for RIDES Transportation Services and volunteering for the “Pals” mentorship program.

Mike's philosophy of “work hard - play hard” was infectious! His dental practice patient list was long and loyal. However, he will best be remembered for his love of family, fun and activity. Gatherings at the Fideler Home were famous for great food, games, laughs and memories. Mike was the BEST dancer on the floor of any event. All the ladies would spar over who would dance with Mike next!

GOLF was his favorite pastime. He could read a putt like no one else. He loved the game and played it all of his life making appearances in the annual Northwest Amateur Golf Tournament held annually at Spencer Golf and CC. It was an event he and his family looked forward to each year. While competitive on the course, he would more accurately be described as a true gentleman and kind beyond words to all who knew him.

Left to cherish his memory and legacy are his wife of 69 years Ethie Fideler and their six children; Son, Bradley Fideler (Rebecca). Daughters, Debra Williams (Phil) Cindy Pietsch (Michael) Pam Duitsman, Amy McDonald, Michele Adams (Dan), Sixteen Grandchildren; Rachel Lynch (Patrick) Michael Pietsch, Joshua Williams (deceased) Elizabeth Smith (Zachariah) Adrianna Williams, Drew Duitsman (Samantha), Logan Duitsman, Kate Fideler, Elizabeth Fideler, Emily Fideler, Ashley Six (Marshall) Kevin McDonald, Tyler Adams, Livia Adams, Trey Adams, Lucy Adams, Eight Great Grandchildren; Grace Lynch, Luke Lynch, Jack Lynch, Palmer Six, Rory Six, Madison Smith, Samantha Smith, Deliah Duitsman

A private Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a future date.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal”.             -Irish Prover