Michael Mestach

     Michael Mestach, beacon of love and wisdom, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the age of 80. Mike was born on November 1, 1944, to the late Sylvester (Bucky) and Irene (Dutoi) Mestach.  After Irene passed when Mike was three, he was raised by Bucky and Gertude (Putz) Mestach, his stepmother.  On June 3, 1967, he married Jeanne (Vines), his wife of 57 years. They are the proud parents of Ryan and Kimberly. Mike is survived by his loving wife Jeanne (Vines) Mestach, his children Ryan (Jenny) Mestach of Waterloo, WI and Kimberly (Jarrod) Roy of Austin, TX, his brother Dan (Marlene) Mestach, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his mother and father Bucky and Irene Mestach, his stepmother Gertrude Mestach, his sister and brother-in-law Janet and Frank Lakner, and his niece Amy Mestach.

     Mike attended St. Bavo’s grade school and graduated from Madison High School before serving honorably in the Navy.  He took classes at Ivy Tech and was a sheet metal apprentice. Mike had his own business, Ryan-Mestach Construction, after this. He then worked as the safety manager and bid estimator at VanVooren Construction for many years before retiring in 2006. He was a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Parish, where he served as the first Grand Knight of their Knights of Columbus council.

     Mike loved all things Notre Dame and cars, both new and vintage. He also loved going trap shooting with his brother-in-law, Frank, having coffee with his brother Dan, listening to music, and being an avid reader.  He never met a stranger and treasured being with family, friends, and neighbors. He enjoyed traveling with his family, spending many winters in Gulf Shores, AL, going to lunch with friends, and playing games with family.

     The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Mokfi and the staff of Heart-to-Heart Hospice, especially Desiree and Viviana.  At Mike’s request, no services will be held at this time; the family will have a private memorial service at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Michael Mestach may be made to Queen of Peace Church in Mishawaka, St. Bavo’s Church, or Heart to Heart Hospice.  Online condolences and a favorite memory or story would be treasured by Mike’s children. 
 

Joy. 

Gladness not based on circumstance. 

Even when that circumstance is someone 

dying in the next room. 

Somewhere in the storm, Joy is still

anchoring us lest we slip away entirely. 

Joy begs us to remember:

Behind a clouded curtain, light

Still radiates just beyond our view.

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