Michael J. Dutko, II

Michael J. Dutko, 92, died on September 14, 2026 at Otterbein Middletown.

After a premature birth on August 14, 1934, Michael J. Dutko, II lived to be a man who loved his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, students, and the earth.

Although born in Middletown, Mike grew up living several years in San Antonio, TX and Redlands, CA with his parents, Michael J. and Elta (Barker) Dutko. After his father’s tragic death when Mike was only 17 years old, he and his mother returned to Ohio where he graduated from Middletown High School. Mike then earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Miami University, where he was active in the Delta Chi fraternity.

While in college, Mike met his wife Juletta (Miracle) working at the Central Store in Middletown. They married in 1959 and shared 48 wonderful years together before Juletta’s death in 2007. Together they enjoyed spending time at home with family and friends but also satisfying their wanderlust by traveling the country with their children and later, in retirement. Mike was proud to say that he had spent time in all 50 states, most U.S. National Parks, Canada, and the Caribbean. He traveled to his favorite place on earth – Alaska – after Juletta’s death and in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary.

Mike taught 7th grade science at Madison Junior High School for 31 years. As a “kid at heart,” he often took learning out of the classroom. The Dutko property was a popular gathering spot for kids of all ages and his annual “Fabulous 50” was legendary. At the end of each school year, the top 50 students were treated to a daylong field trip at Hueston Woods State Park for hiking, fossil hunting, fishing, canoeing and likely plenty of mischief.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Mike understand that he embraced life and those with whom he shared it. As Mike’s health failed in his final days, it was clear he did not fear dying but as he put it, “did not want to leave this earth that he loved.”

Many are left to mourn Mike’s death and honor his memory. He is survived by his two children Teresa (Louis Martinelli) and Michael (Desiree) Dutko III. His favorite people called him “Pop,” including grandchildren Bella and Essa, and great grandchildren Orion, Aurora, and Aleigha. Other family include Hans and Sylvia Lenski and Richard, Lisa, Rachel, and Brandon Ebert. In addition to his wife and parents, Mike was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Alexandra.

Mike received exceptional care over the years from Dr. Hurlburt and his staff, along with long-time visiting nurse, Jen. The family also wishes to thank the caregivers at Spring Hills Senior Living, Otterbein, and Hospice Care of Middletown for their compassionate care of him in recent weeks.

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 22, 2026, from 1:00 - 2:00 PM at Spaulding Funeral Home and Crematory, 3805 Roosevelt Blvd. (at Bonita Dr.), Middletown, OH. Funeral will follow at 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be at Springboro Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Care of Middletown (4418 Lewis Street, Suite B, Middletown, OH 45044) or the Bereavement Education Fund at Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science (3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207).

Please sign the guestbook at SpauldingFuneralHome.com