Michael John (Mike) Tatone was born on June 24, 1924 in Mason City, Iowa to Alex Tatone and Marie D'Angelo Tatone, both of whom immigrated to the United States from Italy. Mike was the fifth of eight children. Mike graduated from Mason City High School (Go Mohawks) in 1943 where he lettered in football, baseball and wrestling as a sophomore, junior and senior. He also served on the student council his junior and senior years. Mike was a member of the 1943 Iowa State championship football team. After graduation Mike enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served as a bombardier in the Pacific Theater. After completion of his service in the Army, Mike attended college under the G.I. Bill at Findlay College (now Findlay University) in Findley, OH. (1946-48). After his first year at Findlay College, Mike returned to Mason City where he married Wilma McCurry on June 12, 1947 and both moved out to Findlay, OH. While at Findlay College Mike wrestled and played football. In both 1947 and 1948, Mike was a Regional AAU champion and placed second in the National AAU tournament. In the summer of 1948, Mike and Wilma came to Minneapolis where Mike would complete his education at the University of Minnesota. In 1950, Mike received his B.M.E. (Mechanical Engineering). While at the University, Mike had the opportunity to wrestle under coach Dave Barthelma and with such greats as Vern Gagne, Alan Rice and Leo Nomellini. In 1950 Mike placed second in the Big Ten Tournament at 121 pounds. After graduation, Mike worked for Minneapolis Moline, Honeywell and Control Data and raised four children. Both of his sons wrestled in high school as did his grandson who is the current co-coach of Minnehaha Academy/DeLaSalle wrestling team. Wilma has seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mike died on December 2, 1983 from injuries he received in a motor vehicle accident in October of that year. Immediately after graduation, Mike began his career as a wrestling official. He refereed high school wrestling matches throughout the twin cities area for over 20 years and was a fixture as a referee at the MSHSL state tournament until he retired in 1973. In addition to wrestling, football and baseball, Mike loved to hunt and fish.