Michael "Mike" Vincent Ferris

Michael Vincent Ferris, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on December 27, 2024, at the age of 85. Born in Fargo, North Dakota, on July 20, 1939, he was the cherished son of George and Antoinette (Grosch) Ferris.

Mike’s early education took place at Holy Spirit Elementary School, followed by his graduation from Fargo Central High School in 1957. From 1963-1965 he proudly served his country at Fort Eustis, Virginia, where he had the unique honor of working as a cameraman during General MacArthur’s nationally televised funeral, a memory he cherished throughout his life.

Mike was united in marriage to Sharon Sullivan on August 3,1964 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Together they raised two children: Kevin and Kristin. They enjoyed 60 years of marriage together and celebrated their wedding anniversary this summer. Mike loved his family dearly and was very proud of them.

After his honorable discharge from military service, Mike returned to the world of broadcasting and dedicated 41 years of his career to KXJB-TV, ultimately retiring as Production Manager in 2000. Throughout his tenure, he became a respected figure in the industry, known for his dedication and professionalism.

A passionate outdoorsman, Mike looked forward to the fall each year when he could embark on pheasant hunting trips in South Dakota with his son and grandsons. These experiences brought him immeasurable joy and created cherished family memories.

In addition to his career, he pursued a lifelong passion for watchmaking, completing a course at the Wisconsin Institute of Horology before learning the craft from his father. His time was often spent finding broken high-grade pocket watches at auctions, allowing him to immerse himself in the intricate movements of each piece, often staying up late into the night to restore them to their former glory.

Mike is survived by his wife, Sharon Ferris; daughter Kristin Ferris; grandsons Michael Ferris and Brandon (Courtney Cater) Ferris; great-grandson Liam Kevin Ferris; nephews Todd (Teri) McLaren, Tom Sullivan and Tyson Sullivan; nieces Michelle (Kipp) Longo, Marjorie (Chris Michalski) Olson, and Karen (Bill) Ferreira; brother-in-law Larry Sullivan; and sister-in-law Marilyn (John) Scott.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved son, Kevin Ferris; his parents; his in-laws Clarence and Gladys Walford; his brother Jerry Ferris; sister-in-law LaVerne Sullivan; and nephew Terrell Sullivan.