Obituary: Michael Wadel, 67, Ludington.

Obituary: Michael Wadel, 67, Ludington.

Michael John Wadel, 67, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 30 at 9:15 a.m.

Born in Ludington on Nov. 22, 1950, Mike followed in the footsteps of his father and was a longtime contractor in the northwest Michigan area.  He was a graduate of Ferris State College. Mike worked construction in Michigan, as well as in Florida and Tennessee, helping with the early phases of nuclear and hydroelectric power, as well as residential home construction. Destined to return to his roots and to escape the heat of the South, he returned to Ludington in his later years to establish Michael J. Wadel Construction.

From sea walls and thawing pipes or fixing just about anything, Mike readily shared his extensive knowledge with others. Mike was a collector of people, friends and experiences. In his final months, numerous individuals came to visit him and they often brought their latest building or construction challenge to encourage lively conversation.

Survivors include his son Alex Wolkow; daughter Cindy (Christopher) Lundberg; siblings Joan Wadel, Peter (Ingrid) Wadel, Janet (Jack) Bulger, Katie (Mike) Crawford, Susan (Mike) Sizemore, Mary Pat (Kevin) Dunleavy. He is also survived by his longtime girlfriend and soulmate, Mary Vanderveer, numerous nieces and nephews and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother Virginia Wadel; father Bruce Wadel; and wife Carlene Cloutier Wadel. 

Mike leaves a legacy that includes the walkway and handicapped accessible decks in the Ludington State Park, which he took great pride in building, so that those with disabilities would have access to the Big Sable River. In his final months, Mike lamented the fact that he had to leave one of his biggest and most significant projects unfinished: the reconstruction of the Pere Marquette Memorial, which his father, Bruce, had worked on in 1955. The fact that Mike recently won the contract was a big source of pride for him and for those who knew the history of the historical marker.

Mike asked in lieu of flowers that donations be made to support our community in Ludington through the Pere Marquette Memorial Association, Lakeshore Food Club or Ludington Area Catholic Education. 

The family is thankful to Harbor Hospice, especially Deb, Sue and Bob; and to Lori Thompson, a valued friend and family caregiver, and the countless friends and relatives who took time to visit with Mike during his last few months.

A Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be held Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at 4 p.m. at St. Simon Catholic Church. Family will greet friends starting at 3 p.m. Mike will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Pere Marquette Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.oakgroveludington.com.