Michael Lee Holtsclaw

Michael Lee Holtsclaw, age 77 of Largo, Florida, passed away on January 16, 2022 surrounded by his family and comforted by his loving wife.  Mike was born in Elwood on February 23, 1944 to Billy and Louise Holtsclaw.  Mike graduated from Wendell L. Willkie High School in 1962 and went to work at Delco Remy in Anderson, where he later retired after 30 years of service.  He was a member of U.A.W. Local #662.  Mike married the love of his life, Francoise “Chic” Holtsclaw, and they spent 45 years of marriage together.

Mike loved motorcycles, walks on the beach and sports. He was an avid Rays, Bucs & Cubs fan. Family and friends meant the most to Mike.  After his retirement, Mike and Chic moved to Indian Rocks Beach, Fla.  Together they created many memories boating and entertaining friends and family.  He was nicknamed by locals “King of the Beach.”  Health and Fitness was a daily priority for decades.  Mike enjoyed teaching others weight lifting, and his laugh was contagious in spreading happiness.  His legacy, sense of humor, passion for music, painting, and living a happy life will live on through his children and grandchildren.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Chic Holtsclaw; daughter, Penny (Matt) Tom; son, Rick (Denise) Holtsclaw; 5 grandchildren, David Rhinehart, William Holtsclaw, Erick Holtsclaw, Mattie Tom, and Mikayla Tom; brother, Joe Holtsclaw; nieces, nephew, cousins and his beloved pets, Margaret and Tucker.  Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Louise Holtsclaw; and brother-in-law and dear friend, Dan Teachnor.

A celebration of life gathering will be held from 2 to 4 pm on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at Copher Fesler May Funeral Home in Elwood.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite charity in Mike’s memory.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.