Michael Hathaway

Michael Hathaway, age 73, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away at home on September 21, 2024. Born November 18, 1950, in Jackson, Michigan to John and Phyllis (Hummel) Hathaway, Mike grew up in Adrian, Michigan where he developed a love for water skiing at Devil’s Lake, riding go-carts with his brothers in the Irish Hills, and working on his cars.

From a young age, a strong work ethic was evident as he assisted his father in the family-owned painting business and performed chores at his grandmother’s farm. This foundation of hard work, staying true to your word, and dedication carried through his entire life. 

In 1969, he volunteered for the draft and served as an auto rifleman for the Army First Air Cavalry (Tall Comanche), participating in the 1970 Cambodian Incursion. During his deployment, he sustained a lifelong injury and was transported to China Beach, Vietnam and Camp Zuma, Japan. He remained forever grateful to the skilled surgeons and nurses who facilitated his remarkable recovery. 

Mike pursued higher education at Eastern Michigan University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Marketing. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as he founded and operated an HVAC company for over 30 years in Arizona. Known for his problem-solving abilities, mechanical skills, dependability, fairness, and work ethic sustained lasting friendships with a loyal customer base.

An adventurer at heart, Mike embraced any physical or mental challenges wherever they were presented. His greatest joy was skiing the black diamond runs any chance he could. In warmer weather, he cherished day trips to Canyon Lake, where he would challenge his family to race across the smooth water on their jet skis.

Mike was well known for his quick wit, banter, outgoing personality, and contagious smile. His keen sense of humor made every encounter with him enjoyable. He was deeply devoted to his family and fiercely loyal to his friends. In later years, spending time with the grandchildren gave him immense joy. 

Mike is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Pat and Jack. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Carol; Eric (Vickie), Heather (Brian), Kayla, Logan, Gisele, and Emilie. He also leaves behind Jeff, Ron, David, Pam, and numerous nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Matthew United Methodist Church, 2540 West Baseline Road, Mesa, AZ 85202. Rev. Joel Bullock will be officiating; a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions in memory of Michael Hathaway to the following organizations:

Muhammed Ali Parkinson Center at Barrows Neurological Institute

Disabled Veterans of America

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research