Michael "Mike" Eddie Rhone passed away on February 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, strength, and compassion that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Mike was born on September 5, 1979, to Joyce Goines-Bland and Walter Rhone. Mike attended William Horlick High School in Racine, where his natural athletic ability and love for football continued to shine. His passion for the game earned him a full scholarship to North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota, where he proudly played college football for the NDSU Bison. During his final year of college, Mike attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where he completed his studies and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business. Mike's love for football never faded. After college, he continued playing semi-professional football, earning recognition for his talent and dedication before eventually relocating to Rapid City, South Dakota.

Mike was a creative and hardworking man who poured passion into everything he did. He owned and operated his own business under his brand "605," where he designed and printed his own line of sportswear and graphics with an emphasis on one-of-a-kind, unique designs. His creativity and originality made his work stand out and reflected the pride he took in everything he created.

Later in life, Mike worked as a Utility Locator for USIC, where he became known for his dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic. Mike took great pride in doing his job the right way and never allowed whatever he may have been going through in life to affect the work he did or the responsibilities he carried. His coworkers and supervisors loved and respected him not only for his reliability and skill, but for the kind of man he was. Mike consistently received awards and recognition for his performance and the pride he took in his work. His impact on the team was so meaningful that in the coming weeks, USIC will hold a special procession to retire his work equipment, honoring a man who gave so much of himself to his work and to those around him.

More than his accomplishments, Mike will be remembered for the incredible man he was. His faith in God was strong and unwavering, and it guided the way he lived his life. Mike carried himself with quiet strength and resilience, even during the most difficult moments No matter what he was personally going through, he was always looking out for others first. He was the kind of man who checked on people, lifted them up when they were struggling, and offered encouragement when someone needed it most. Mike had a generous heart and a natural instinct to help those around him. His strength, compassion, and faith inspired many, and his presence made people feel safe, supported, and valued. Mike also had a special love for animals, and they seemed to love him just as much. His calm spirit and kind heart drew both people and animals to him naturally. Above all, Mike was a devoted father.

Mike is survived by his three children, Mikaya Rhone and Samiah Rhone of North Dakota, and Kamyra Rhone of South Dakota; mother, Joyce Goines-Bland of Racine; half-brother, Jessie Bland of Racine, Wisconsin; half-sister, Lisa Bland Cooley of Quitman, MS; half-sister, Korie Bland of Pleasant Prairie, WI; and half-brother, Walter Rhone Jr. of Arizona. Mike shared a special bond with his nephew, Jeremy Bland of Racine, who was raised alongside him more like a brother than a nephew. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles, along with two special aunts Sarah Rhone Fitcheard, Dallas, TX and Ora Rhone Speed, Phoenix, AZ; and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. Mike also had a special bond with and was instrumental in raising and nurturing his daughter's (Kamyra) half-sisters, Makaila and Hattie Jackson of South Dakota. He also leaves behind a very special lifelong friend, Lamar Gordon, whose friendship with Mike began during their college years and remained strong through the years. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Walter Rhone, Sr.; half-sister, Bridget Bland West; and grandfathers, Cicero Rhone and Lamar Goines.

Mike's life was defined by faith, love, generosity, and strength. The impact he made on others cannot be measured, and the memories he created will be treasured forever. Though his time here was far too short, the love he gave and the lives he touched will never be forgotten. The family wants to thank everyone for their prayers and support.

Then he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom." And Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise."   Luke 23:42-43

Service Details

A memorial service was held on March 2, 2026, at Drager-Langendorf Funeral Home in Racine, where family and friends gathered to honor Mike's life.