Michael Phillip Bakken, 38, of Middletown, CT was born on June 22, 1983.  Mike moved through the world with wit, compassion, and love for his family and friends.  He passed away from a heart attack on December 28, 2021.

Mike grew up in Chaplin with the love of his father and grandparents.  He graduated from Parish Hill High School and attended ECSU.  Mike was well-read and maintained his love of reading throughout his life.  

Mike was a dedicated martial artist.  He began training when he was six years old, studying Shoshin Ryu for ten years.  In adulthood, he went on to study and train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu,  Japanese Jujitsu, and MMA.  Mike's instructor and friend Matt Bryers said, "Mike was a very tough martial artist.  He had a strong drive to get better, worked hard and was just...tough.  As a student and training partner he was a pleasure to work with.  When it came time to spar and challenge himself, Mike always rose to the occasion."

Mike loved music.  He was always excited to go to shows, talk about music, or mention offhand that he had a ton of vinyl.  In 2003 Mike performed vocals for the band Candela Fjord.  Mike Ciervo, his friend and bandmate, said, "He had the best taste in tunes for a non-musician.  Like best I ever met."  Going to a show with Mike was an event in itself.  His energy, enthusiastic conversation, and excitement could make any show into an unforgettable memory.

Mike loved his family and friends and was loved equally in return.  He touched the hearts of those around him with his character, energy, humor, candor, genuine friendship, and compassion for others.  We are grateful for the time we had with Mike.  The world was a better place with him in it.  He is dearly missed and forever loved.

Michael leaves behind his father Michael Bakken, grandmother Patricia Bakken, grandfather Nelson Bakken, uncle Nelson Bakken, aunt Margaret Bakken, cousins Kate Bakken and Eric Bakken, as well as Paul "Andy" Luft, Terri Olesen, Lori Turner, Mikayla Luft, Joseph Olesen, Alexis Luft, and Paul Bakken-Scala.  

There will be no public services.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Childrens Hospital.