Michael L. Routh

Michael L. Routh, 61, of Sarasota, FL, formerly of Hannibal, MO, passed away Friday, November 21, 2025, in Sarasota, FL.

A Memorial Service will be at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, MO. Rev. Stephanie Himmel will officiate. Private Burial will be at a later date at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in Saint Louis, MO.

Friends and Family are invited to Michael 's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday, December 29, 2025, at the funeral home.

Michael was born October 15, 1964, in Miami, FL to Jeffrey Routh and Ane Marie Venegas.

Survivors include his mother, Ane Marie Rutherford of Sarasota, FL; five children, Ashley McClain, Samuel Routh, Maggie Routh, Claire Routh, and Lydia Routh; one sister, Monica Knapp (Jerry) of Port Charlotte, FL; two grandchildren, Josephine and Autumn; and one special nephew, Niko Routh of Sarasota, FL.

Michael was preceded in death by his brother, Mark Routh.

Michael was a proud veteran of the United States Armed Services, enlisting first in the United States Air Force right out of high school, and later serving in both the Missouri National Guard and Air National Guard. He served from July 29, 1982 to September 13, 2013. He retired in 2013 as a Tech Sergeant with 131st Security Forces Missouri Air National Guard. Michael was proud to have served in times of peace and conflict, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan.

As a civilian, Michael retired from the Hannibal Police Department where he was a Lieutenant and Division Patrol Commander. In his earlier years with HPD, he also served as the department's first K-9 Officer, with his partners Lord and Jury, both of whom preceded him in death.

Outside of the uniform, Mike enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. Despite being dubbed 'Mad Mike' by his fellow Airmen- an honest first impression- Routh had a heart of gold and a genuine desire to serve others. He always answered the call- whether it came from the military, police dispatch or a friend in need. He was a devoted father and his children's number one fan. He was a great human.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, or to his children's education fund, checks payable to Laura Meyer.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.JamesODonnellFuneralHome.com.