Michael L. Van Beek, 77, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026.

Michael was born May 23, 1949, in Canton, SD to Evelyn who later married Elmer Van Beek who adopted Michael. He grew up alongside his siblings, Clifford, Ronald, and Jeanette, and spent most of his life in Sioux Falls.

Mike spent the majority of his career working in construction before retiring in 2008. Outside of work, he enjoyed several interests & hobbies. As a younger man, auto racing was Mike’s greatest passion. He spent many years racing street stock cars on dirt tracks throughout the area and was well known for his #4 racecar. Some of the fondest memories Mike’s children shared with their dad were made at the track and in the garage, tinkering on the car and getting it ready for the next race. The use of the number 4, that Mike established on his racecar back in the 1970’s, has carried on through the generations, with several of his children and grandchildren still proudly wearing the #4 on their sports jerseys today.

Mike also loved the outdoors and spent countless days at the lake, whether he was out on his boat, fishing from shore, or grilling for the family during a long day by the water. When winter came and the lakes froze over, he could still be found outside ice fishing. If he wasn’t at the lake, there was a good chance he was out on the dirt roads or in the fields hunting pheasants with family.

In his later years, Mike spent several seasons coaching softball alongside his son and son-in-law. His granddaughters McKenzie and Michealla were both members of the team, making those seasons especially meaningful to him. He made a lasting impact on many of the girls he coached and even helped lead his first-year team all the way to the championship game.

Mike had a lifelong love for animals, including many beloved family dogs over the years. His true passion with animals was raising show pigeons. He traveled the Midwest with his family to bird shows, where he not only showed and raised his birds, but also participated in judging. For several years, he even hosted a show of his own.

When Mike wasn’t at the racetrack, on the softball field, at a bird show, or out hunting or fishing, you could typically find him in his workshop, figuring out what he was going to build next.

Mike is survived by his wife, Chris; his five children, Michael Van Beek Jr., Lisa Van Beek, Adam Van Beek, Bergen Erdman (Josh), and Celsie Piehl (Joe); his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his brothers, Cliff Van Beek and Ron Van Beek.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Evelyn Van Beek, and his sister, Jeanette Van Beek.

Mike will be deeply missed by his family and by all who knew and loved him. His family is grateful for the support, kindness, and love shown to them during this difficult time. We will be hosting a celebration of life in honor of Michael on October 17th, 2026 in Sioux Falls, SD the address is: 221 N Marion Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57107 at the office community room.