Michael Paul Kendall, Sr.

Michael Paul Kendall Obituary Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend Michael Paul Kendall, Sr. age 78, born October 23, 1946, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on the morning of January 24, 2025, in the loving company of his family. A lifelong resident of Wawaka, Indiana, Mike's life was a testament to dedication, love for his family and friends, and community spirit. He was devoted to those who survived him. Most dearly, his wife, Charmaine, with whom he shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. After marrying on July 9, 1966, together, they built a family starting with their four children. Michael Paul (Rose) Kendall, Jr. of Wawaka, Michelle Lee (Tom) Marsh of Ligonier, Bradley Allen Kendall of Kendallville, Charisse Marie (Rick Havourd) Hull of Gregory, MI; Grandchildren, Korey Paul (Ashley) Kendall, Kendra Eleaca Kendall, Ryan Michael Kendall, Kyle Michael Marsh, Kevin Bradley Marsh, Molly Charisse Marsh, Morgan Marie (Tyler) Borkowski, Dustin Thomas Hull, Rocco Havourd, Donato Havourd; Great-Grandchildren, Brogan Marsh, Layton Marsh, Caelin Marsh, Karter Kendall, Conner Stephens, Kaden Kendall, Gracelyn Stephens, Adelynn Marsh, Allison Marsh; Sister, Patce Bobeck. He was preceded in death by his parents, Laurel and Mary Blanche (Frick) Kendall, sisters Marilyn (Roy) Elkins, Linda (Chuck) Smith, brother-in-law Keith Bobeck. As a father and grandfather, Mike passed on his love of sports and the great outdoors to all those he touched, his children, grandchildren and the community in which he lived. You could always find him fishing on the Elkhart River or watching football and baseball. He has left a legacy that will endure for generations. As a Little League baseball coach, he inspired young athletes and fostered a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship. His love of the great outdoors extended to hunting and trapping, but it was fishing that truly captured his heart. His fondest memories can be found on the many lakes and rivers, where he shared his passion and skills with those he loved. There’s at least one fishing cove in Minnesota missing his presence today. Mike retired from Starcraft, Topeka, IN, after barely missing a day in 39 years. He was a lifelong member of Wawaka Church of the Brethren. Mike served his country with honor as a member of the United States Army, stationed in Vietnam from 1966 to 1968. His service and sacrifice were a source of pride for him, his family and community. Thanks to the kindness of Norm & Kenny Stringfellow and grandson Lee, Mike was able to travel to Washington, D.C. as part of the 45th Honor Flight. Accompanied by his daughter, Charisse, they visited the nation's capital and experienced the memorials dedicated to all those who served. Mike's presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, the songbirds he kept fed through the winter, and the American Flag he faithfully tended. His dedication to his family, his love for his community, and his unwavering spirit have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. A gathering of family and friends will take place Tuesday, January 28, 2025 from 4-8pm at Wawaka Church of the Brethren, 2726 W 700 N, Wawaka, IN 46794. A service will be held in Michael’s honor at 11am on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at the Wawaka Church of the Brethren. Pastor Joey Nelson will officiate. Burial will take place following the service at Cosperville Cemetery in Wawaka, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Veterans Administration Oncology Center, Fort Wayne. Rest in peace, Michael