NORWICH – Julian G. (Mike) Michels, 88, former Norwich resident, passed away early Wednesday morning, Jan. 14, 2009 at Universal Health Care in Fletcher, N.C.
The son of Ralph and Rosa Michels, Mike was born in Savannah, Georgia on July 30, 1920. He was a 1937 graduate of Savannah High School and later received his B.S. in chemistry at the University of Georgia in 1941 (go Dawgs!). He earned his Masters degree in 1943 from the University of Tennessee prior to serving as a sergeant in the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions of the Army Air Corps during World War II.
Following his honorable discharge in 1946, he married Mae L. Fetherolf of Jacksonville, Pa. on July 20, 1946 in Allentown, Pa. He went on to earn his Ph.D. in chemistry from Lehigh University and joined Norwich-Eaton Pharmaceuticals in 1951, where he remained for 32 years. He retired to Hendersonville, N.C. in 1983.
Mike enjoyed a full retirement which included playing bridge and woodworking in his shop, as well as much domestic and worldwide travel. He was active for many years in the choir at Grace Lutheran Church, and volunteered as a driver for FISH.
He was predeceased by his wife of 59 years in June 2005. He is survived by his children and their spouses: Connie and John Michels of Montgomery, Alabama, Peg and Phil Nave of Upper Sandusky, Ohio, Jayne and Dr. Tom Michels of University Place, Washington, Simons and Jeff Michels of Hendersonville, N.C. and Kim and Steve Michels of Afton. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 1 great- grandson.
A memorial service is planned for Feb. 21 at Grace Lutheran Church, Hendersonville, NC. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Grace Lutheran Church, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements. An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.