Michael "Mike" Major

Michael "Mike" Major, 78 of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away on September 19, 2025. Mike was born March 2, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late John "Jack" and Frances (Matthews) Major. Mike graduated in 1965, from Whetstone High School in Columbus, Ohio, where he played baseball and was a member of their casting club. He was a graduate of Kent State University with a Bachelors Degree in Business. While in college, he was a catcher on the Kent State baseball team. He dedicated 37 years to Ford Motor Company as a Labor Relations Supervisor, retiring in 2001. Mike married Shirley Ward on August 11, 2003 in Sevierville, Tennessee, and she survives. Also surviving are children Dawn Hendrickson (Brian), Rebecca Empie (Doug), Brian Major (Tammy); step-children Angie Ward, Tyler Ward, and Cherish Sansonetti; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; beloved cousins; other relatives and friends. Mike was a member of Brunner Shooting Range in Leavenworth, KS; he was also an avid fisherman. He had a passion for music from the 50's and 60's and loved to play the guitar. Mike worked with Special Olympics. He loved NASCAR racing, and his passion was that he was a loyal Ohio State Buckeye. Mike was a hard worker and a loyal friend, giving a listening ear and providing support. The family appreciated the exceptional loving care given to Mike at the Gower Convalescent Center. Mike has been cremated under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith & Sidenfaden Chapel. The family will have a private service at a later date. Memorial contributions would be appreciated to the American Diabetes Association - https://www.diabetes.org or the American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org