Michael Lee Schlegel, 58, passed away at his home in Story on Sunday, February 23. Mike was born in New Hyde Park, New York, on July 13, 1961, to Robert and Vaunda (Huggins) Schlegel. His mother notedit was a rugged birth. In 1970, after his father passed away, the family moved to Story. As a boy, Mike worked summers at the Story Horse Corral, where he acquired the nickname “Chops.”Mike was truly a self-made man. He left school early to work as a carpenter, and later worked for many years as Research and Technology Director at KFX Inc. in Gillette. He was known for his hard work,intelligence and determination. When he wasn’t working, he could often be found in his shop.Mike loved the outdoors and spent many hours hunting or riding snowmobiles in the mountains with his friends. He also enjoyed riding his Harley, dancing, and always being right. He was a protective fatherand big brother/uncle and a loyal friend to many. He will be deeply missed.Mike is survived by his son, Taran, of Casper; his sisters, Punky (Mike) Bradley of Sheridan and Sharon (Joe) Selberg of Portland, OR; his grandmother, Frances Huggins of Story; his grandsons, Konnar andKaine Schlegel; his nieces, Jamie and Jennifer Schlegel, and a nephew, Tenzin Sherman. He was preceded in death by his father, his mother, his brother and partner-in-crime, Jim, and his son, Kalen.A celebration of Mike’s life will be held in the summer. In the meantime, his family wishes to thank his friends for sharing their memories, funny stories, and kind words about Chops. He was one of a kind.Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.