Mike Lunsford

Mike Lunsford, 84, of Gainesville, GA, passed away on January 8, 2024. Born on March 28, 1939, in Whiting, Indiana, USA, Mike was a beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Mike was known for his fun-loving nature, kindness, and work ethic. He was friend and quick to share a smile and a joke, bringing joy to those around him.

In his early years, Mike attended George Rogers Clark High School, graduating with the class of 1956. He furthered his education at Indiana University.

After completing his education, Mike served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army from 1962 to 1964. Mike was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany.  Mike was a proud veteran.

Following his military service, Mike embarked on a successful career. He began as an entry-level clerk at Wyman-Gordon.  When the company decided to establish a computer department, Mike's aptitude test results at IBM were the highest recorded.  Mike recalled that the IBM test was where his IT career began.   Mike held management roles at Wyman-Gordon and Rome Industries in Cedartown, Georgia before relocating to Gainesville, Georgia, where he worked as the IT Manager at Indalex Aluminum Solutions until his retirement in 2004.

Outside of work, Mike had many hobbies and interests. He moved to Georgia in 1976 and embraced life in the warm south.  He coached Little League alongside his best friend, Raymond Kuglar and was a dedicated fan of his grandchildren’s varied activities. He was an active member of the Lakeshore Squares square dancing club and enjoyed square dancing with his wife and their many friends. For years, Mike was an avid runner and a dedicated member of the Lanier Running Club.  He ran the Peachtree Road Race at least 20 times and completed a half-marathon.  Traveling the world with his wife was a passion that brought them both great joy.  In retirement, Mike and Shari became snowbirds and spent their winters with friends at Siesta Bay in Fort Myers, Florida.  The annual trip to Florida was one of Mike’s favorite things.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Shari Lovig Lunsford, his children Kevin (Janet) Lunsford, Melissa (Darrell) Rodgers, Jeni (Cody) Summers, his grandchildren Rachel Lunsford, Daniel Lunsford, Kristen Lunsford, Andrew Rodgers, Zachary Rodgers, Bryce Summers, Baylie Summers, and his great-grandson Thomas Lunsford. Mike leaves behind many extended family members and devoted friends.  He was preceded in death by his mother Beulah Arnold Lunsford, his father William Ray Lunsford, his brother William Lunsford, his sister Joan Strbiak, and his first wife Jane Germany Lunsford.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 13, 2024 in the Chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home. Darrell Rodgers, Louis McClure and Steve Lovig will officiate. The family will receive friends Saturday at Memorial Park Funeral Home from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.

In memory of Mike Lunsford, contributions can be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.

Mike's presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and hard work will continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who hold him dear.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA  30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com