Laurence "Butch" Michael Jr.

Laurence E. “Butch” Michael Jr., age 80, of rural Rockford, passed away Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at his residence.

He was born June 5, 1944, in Rockford, to the late Laurence E. and Mary (Mihm) Michael Sr.

Butch was united in marriage with Paula May on September 28, 1968.  She preceded him in death August 12, 2021.

Surviving are their daughters: Melinda Warthman of Dayton and Kristi (Jim) Bennett of Russells Point, three grandchildren: Mariell (Nick) Mueller, Maggie Warthman, and James Bennett, and his sister, Connie Bigham, of Rockford.

Preceding him in death was a sister and brother-in-law: Mary Ann & John Harris, and brother-in-law, Dave Bigham.

A 1963 graduate of Rockford High School, Butch served with the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.  He retired from the Goodyear plant in St. Marys, and was a member of Rockford American Legion Post #508.  

Butch was an avid outdoorsman.  He enjoyed coon and deer hunting, fishing trips to Michigan, and loved vegetable gardening.  Butch was also an excellent woodworker, and had made many decorative and useful items, toys, and furnishings.

Calling Hours are being held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Celina, on Saturday, November 23rd, from 11:00 am to 1:00 p.m.  Services will begin at 1:00, with Pastor Ken Meyer, officiating.        

Burial will take place at Mercer Memory Gardens, Celina.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Frontline Freedom, a nonprofit organization offering Adventure Therapy for Frontline Heroes experiencing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, or depression.  Donations can be made by mail to: Frontline Freedom, 18 E. William St., Delaware, OH 43015, or online at: frontlinefreedom.org.

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