Mickey L Cornwell

     Mickey Cornwell, 71, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, with his beloved wife and daughter by his side. Born on December 12, 1953, in Mannheim, Germany, Mickey was the son of the late Lowell E. Cornwell and the surviving Margot Helga (Velte) Cornwell.

     Mickey was a man of big personality, known for his infectious laugh and generous heart. He was always willing to help others, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him. A devoted husband, Mickey married the love of his life, Ruth (Swilley) Cornwell, on April 7, 1990. Together, they built a life filled with love and cherished memories.

     Fatherhood was Mickey’s greatest joy. He was beyond proud to be the father of his daughter, Holly (Brandyn) Polmateer, and nothing brought him more happiness than being “Papa” to his adored grandchildren, Payton and Blake Polmateer.

     Mickey dedicated many years of hard work at Pace American, where he took pride in his many million dollar shipping weeks, winning the nationwide competitions. But his true passions were bowling, racing, and fishing. Since childhood, he had a bowling ball in his hands, and his talent took him all the way to the PBA Tour while living in California. He competed in the USBC Open Championship Tournament for an incredible 34 consecutive years (1977-2022) and found success bowling across the Michiana area.

     When Mickey wasn’t at the bowling alley, he was at the racetrack. He spent 25 plus years (1987-2012, 2015) behind the wheel racing, getting his start in California and then his career took off throughout Michiana with skill and determination, earning multiple championships and countless victories. His beautifully built race cars were as well-known as his competitive spirit. And when he wasn’t bowling or racing, Mickey could be found by the water, fishing—a pastime that led to the inside joke among friends and family. Because he had a knack for catching small fish, the term "Mickey fish" was born, forever marking any tiny catch with his name. He also enjoyed camping, especially during the summer holidays, making lasting memories with loved ones.

     Mickey is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Cornwell; daughter, Holly (Brandyn) Polmateer; grandchildren, Payton and Blake Polmateer; mother, Margot Cornwell; sisters, Paula and Christy; mother-in-law, Marylin Swilley; sister-in-law, Nancy (Rich) Hotovy; nephew-in-law, Michael (Carrie) Kline; and cousins, Cindy Cornwell and Adam (Dawn) Cornwell.

     He was preceded in death by his father, Lowell Cornwell; father-in-law, Robert Swilley; grandparents, Erwin and Corinne Cornwell; aunt and uncle, Marvin Sr. and Flora May (Waysong) Cornwell; and cousin, Marvin Jr. Cornwell.

     A Visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM at Corey Church of the Nazarene, 10056 Water St., Three Rivers, MI. A dinner will follow to continue sharing memories and honoring Mickey’s life.

     In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hahn’s Funeral Home to help cover the cost of the funeral. Any remaining balance will be donated to Centrica Hospice Care and the Newberg Fire and EMS Department, in appreciation of the care and support they provided.

     Mickey lived his life with passion, humor, and an undeniable love for his family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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