Mike Cleary

Growing up in Cable and spending my childhood at Telemark shaped much of my life. Working in the lodge, teaching skiing, and leading racing programs gave me a front-row seat to the birth of the Birkie, and Tony Wise’s energy and entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting impression.

After leaving Cable, my career took me to the Minneapolis area, where I founded a medical labeling and data collection company. Even while living in the Cities, my wife Mary—who’s also from Cable—and I, along with our children, spent most weekends and holidays back at our lake home near Mt. Telemark. Over 25 years, our team grew the business into one of the fastest-growing privately held firms in the country before selling it to a private equity firm in 2020.

Retirement made the next step clear: it was time to come home. Joining the ABSF Development Committee gave me a meaningful way to give back, working alongside a dedicated group to help raise funds and bring Mt. Telemark Village to life. After several years on the committee, I was honored to be elected to the ABSF Board in 2025.

Being part of the Board feels like coming full circle. The Birkie and this community have given me so much over the years, and I’m passionate about helping more people experience what makes this place so special. My focus is on expanding opportunities for healthy, active lifestyles and encouraging people to get outside and enjoy the incredible resources we have here in the Northwoods.