2015
Gene M. Michael “Mike”, 82, of Flora, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Monday, August 24, 2015. Mike was born to the late Richard and Elva Yeater Michael on January 24, 1933 in Carroll County. He married Barbara J. Esserman on September 7, 1952 in Flora, Indiana.
Mike co-owned Esserman Tire in Flora, Frankfort and Logansport retiring in 1985. The business is now called Carroll County Tire. Prior to that, he was a bricklayer and served our country in the US Air Force. He graduated in the class of 1951 from Flora High School. Mike was known as a good basketball player, he played on the last Flora High School sectional championship team in 1950. He also was a great handyman.
Mike was a charter member of New Hope Church in Flora where he helped build the church with his own hands. He was a devoted Christian and enjoyed watching the church grow to what it is today.
Survivors include his wife Barbara J. Michael. Two sons and daughters-in-law: Greg and Pam Michael of Flora, Robin and Ann Michael of Avon. Two daughters and sons-in-law: Toni and Bob Holley of Plainfield, IL and Nyona and Tim Burdine of Lafayette. Six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Sister-in-law Carole Thurston and brother and sister-in-law Wayne and Sandra Esserman. Sisters-in-law Mary Bush and LaVonne Michael. Preceded by two brothers: Richard and Robert Michael.
Mike’s family will receive friends Thursday from 4-7 PM at Wheeler Family Funeral Home-Baker Chapel, 204 S. Center Street, Flora, IN 46929.
Celebration of Mike’s life will be at 11:00 AM Friday with calling one hour prior at New Hope Church, Flora. Officiating will be Pastor Morgan Young and Pastor Deke Jones. Burial to follow at Maple Lawn Cemetery with military rites by Carroll County Honor Guard. Family is asking for memorial donations be given to New Hope Church or Serenity Hospice, envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be given at www.wheelerfamilyfuneralhome.com
Condolences for the family 02
Georgia Conarroe
August 27, 2015 7:24 am ·Barb and family: I’m so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. He’s one of those guys that will be greatly and forever missed. I remember Mike as being one of those big guys that looked and acted tough but was just a big ole Teddy bear on the inside. This is going to leave a big hole in your lives as well as many, many others. God bless all of you. Love and hugs.
MURRAY W. LANGSTON
August 29, 2015 5:12 pm ·He was a good friend and hero to me when I was in High School. I liked both of you. Wayne was one of my best best friend and we grew up together. Mike was a great basketball player for the Flora Badgers and one of my heros. Barbara my heart and sympathy are with you at this time.
Luv Ya Always,
Murray
wamlf1956@gmail.com
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