Michael Ira Nagel, 64, passed away on March 1, 2026, at Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, PA. Born on September 2, 1961, Michael, affectionately known as Mike, lived a life characterized by devotion, adventure, and service.
Mike embarked on his career journey as a computer programmer at Dataword after completing his education at Sharswood Elementary, Furness Middle School, South Philadelphia High School, and the Computer Learning Center. His dedication to his craft led him to a longstanding 31-year tenure at Vertex Inc, where he recently served as the Manager of Revenue Operations. Known for his commitment and hard work, Mike was recognized as an Unsung Hero, a testament to his willingness to go above and beyond in his professional endeavors.
Mike was a proud veteran who served for 6 years in the Coast Guard from 1980 to 1986, including 13 months on the Evergreen ship keeping track of icebergs to prevent collisions with ships. Mike continued to honor his fellow veterans through activities like Wreaths-Across-America at Paoli Battlefield. His passion for helping others was evident in his volunteer commitments and supporting various non-profits dedicated to social justice, ending homeless ness and eradicating cancer. Mike loved to teach including teaching computers to seniors at a retirement community, Waverly Heights in Gladwynne, for 21 years.
A man of faith, Mike was a vibrant member of the Marsh Creek Community Church in Exton, PA, where he was baptized in Marsh Creek Lake. He actively participated in the church, contributing as a leader on the Leadership team and heading the Audiovisual Team.
An avid sports fan, Mike cheered for the Eagles and Phillies, sharing many game-watching moments with his good buddy, Jim Heller. His love for music was profound, playing the baritone sax in a Mummer's string band for a decade which he shared with his brother, Rich. Mike's s adventurous spirit took him across 49 states and 13 countries, a testament to his love for travel and exploration.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Joan Nagel; his grandfather, Dave Nagel; his uncle and aunt, Irv and Alma Nagel; and his sister-in-law, Jo Ann Early Price.
Mike's personal life was filled with love and close relationships. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Mary Ann, and their daughter, Taylor, who was the light of his life. Mike was her biggest cheerleader and attended all of her events and activities such as Taekwondo, Girl Scouts, theater and musical performances. His family circle included his brother Richard and sister-in-law Linda, nephews Ryan, Matt and Zach, brother-in-law Ralph and his wife Dawn. Mike was close with Mary Ann's stepsisters Laura, Donna and Carol as well as her niece Adriane and husband Patrick and their 4 children, along with many beloved relatives and close friends who shared in his life's journey. Mike was profound ly grateful for the blessings of family and friends.
A Celebration of Life service will be held in his honor on Sunday, March 15th at 2pm at Marsh Creek Community Church, 101 Crump Road, Exton, PA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, To Love a Canine in Malvern, PA, Brandywine Valley SPCA in West Chester, PA, David's Drive dd831.org in Coatesville, PA, and Wreaths-Across-America Paoli Battlefield, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and community. Please wear Eagles or Phillies gear. There will be a church service, Military Honors ceremony, live music, food and opportunities to share memories of Mike.
Links to preferred organizations for potential giving in honor of Mike:
https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html
https://www.tlcrescuepa.org/donate
https://bvspca.org/donate/donation-form
https://dd831.org/donate/
https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/164194/Overview
https://www.marshcreekchurch.org/
(specify audio visual team)