Mike Hill, cherished husband, father and "Popi," transitioned from this world in a tragic farm accident on April 15, 2024. Born on February 17, 1961, in Mansfield, MO, Mike lived a life of dedication and service to his country, community, family and Jesus.

At the onset of their careers in the United States Navy, Mike and his wife, Saundra, crossed paths in California and promptly established roots in Chesapeake, VA, where they welcomed their two children, Kim and Joey.

Having served with honor and distinction for 17 years in the Navy, Mike moved back to southern Missouri with his family in 1998. Transitioning from the Navy, Mike worked at a local sawmill for several years until he embarked on a second career as a Juvenile Detention Center officer, dedicating 20 years to making a positive impact on troubled youth.

Mike's passion for helping youth extended beyond his career. As an adult who grew up in foster homes, Mike was passionate about becoming a foster parent himself. Together with his wife, Saundra, they have supported over 50 foster children through the years.

Next to spending time with his family, the woods was one of Mike's favorite places to be. He loved to hunt and loved sharing the experience with others. Mike's love of animals was amusing to some and shocking to most. Nearly everyone who knew him has a memory of him holding or nursing back to health some kind of wild animal.

Mike grew in his faith throughout his entire life. Since his retirement in the fall of 2023, Saundra often found him in the evenings studying his Bible in a quiet corner of the house. He was an active member of Cabool Christian Church, where he not only grew in his faith, but lived it by loving and serving others. Mike's strong faith in the Lord nurtured in him a spirit of forgiveness. In addition to being an example of faith, those who knew Mike best know what a forgiving heart he had. Mike was always looking for ways to love and serve others, even those who weren't always easy to love.

Mike cherished his family dearly. He was a devoted husband of 41 years to Saundra, a loving father to Kim and Joey, and a cherished and rough-housing Popi to Jared, Noelle, Vera, Autumn, Elias and Malachi. He is also survived by his precious sister Debbie and his loving and hilarious sister-in-law, Renee.

Mike's legacy of faith, family, forgiveness and hard work will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Memorials:

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to FosterAdopt Connect of Mtn. Grove.  100 17th St C, Mountain Grove, MO 65711