Walter Michael "Mike" Vogel

Walter Michael “Mike” Vogel, age 72, went peacefully in his sleep to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at his home in Goshen.  Mike was born November 30, 1946 in Charleston, West Virginia to the late Lawrence H. and Tommie A. (Anderson) Vogel.  Following graduation from St. Albans High School  in 1964, Mike enrolled at West Virginia State University.  He then enlisted in the US Navy during the Vietnam War earning medals of recognition for his service. While serving his country, he met and fell in love with Vici Miller from Fort Wayne, Indiana.  The two were married in Edgerton, Ohio on April 17, 1971 and recently celebrated their 48th anniversary. 

            Vici survives, along with their children Michael (Nissa) Vogel of Winston-Salem, NC, Julie (Scott) Gordy and Kylee Vogel, both of Elkhart.  Also surviving is his brother Lawrence D. (Barbara) Vogel of North Plainfield, NJ.  Mike is also survived by his grandchildren Allie, Aliyah, and Myah Gordy, Riley and Keeghan Vogel, Finn and Eleanor Vogel, and Trenton (Tomi) Charlee and Jillian Simpson, as well as several nieces and nephews. 

            Visitation will be held from 2-6 pm Sunday, May 12, 2019 at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.  There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Monday, May 13, 2019 at the Jamestown United Methodist Church, 59218 County Road 3 South, Elkhart, Indiana, 46517.  Interment and Military Honors will be rendered at Olive Cemetery West following the service.

            Mike was employed for many years as a purchasing agent in the RV Industry and finished his working career as an insurance adjustor when he retired at the age of 62.  After retirement, Mike kept busy working part time delivering vehicles for Harold Zeigler Ford of Elkhart.  He was an avid sports fan, and a devoted follower of Notre Dame Football, the Indianapolis Colts, the Chicago Cubs, and the Jimtown Jimmies.  His favorite athletes by far were his grandchildren.  Mike would always be found at the softball field, football field, band concerts and all other competitions and events featuring his beloved grandchildren.

            He was also a longtime member of the Jamestown United Methodist Church, where he was involved with the Men’s club, ran the sound system, and in his younger years, served as a Scoutmaster while his son “Little Mike ” was in Boy Scouts.

            Mike’s service to his community will forever be remembered.  He was a devoted member of the Baugo Lion’s Club for over 40 years and delivered Meals on Wheels to the elderly.

            “Big Mike” or “The Mayor’s” social skills were top notch.  Mike never knew a stranger.  He loved striking up conversations with people at the ball park and meeting for coffee with his neighborhood friends at the Willows.  His infectious laugh and smile will be dearly missed.

            In honor of Mike and his love for all things football, the family requests you wear your Notre Dame or Colts gear to celebrate his life at the visitation. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Baugo Lion’s Club or the Jamestown United Methodist Church. To leave an online condolence, light a virtual candle, or view his online video tribute, please follow the links provided on the “tribute wall” tab above.

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