Michael Robert Rapinac

Michael R. Rapinac, 79, of Hibbing, formerly of Buhl, Minnesota, died at his home on March 11, 2026.

Born on April 4, 1946, in Hibbing to John and Antonia (Maras) Rapinac, Michael attended local schools before proudly serving in the United States Navy. He worked for many years as a heavy equipment mechanic at Minorca Mine. On August 15, 1992, he married Dawn Marshall in a union that brought him deep happiness.

Michael found great joy in fishing, hunting, four-wheeling, and tinkering with projects in his garage. He was known for his practical nature and the quiet satisfaction he took in fixing things and spending time outdoors.

He is survived by his wife, Dawn Rapinac of Hibbing; his children, Kelly (Dawn Brighid) Rapinac of Brooklyn, New York, Amy Garcia of Zimmerman, Minnesota, John (Emily Johnson) Rapinac of Hibbing, and Hannah (Carston) Rapinac-Erickson of Roseville, Minnesota; his siblings, Winnifred (Bob) Bianconi of Savage, Minnesota, and Celine Keenan of Edina, Minnesota; his sister-in-law, Marlene Rapinac of New Hope, Minnesota; his brother-in-law, Larry Skelly; four grandchildren, Ross Garcia, Todd Garcia, Lainea Rapinac, and Emmett Rapinac; and many nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John Rapinac, and his sister Patti Skelly.