Michael C. Bookout

Michael C. Bookout, 81, of Losantville, passed away on the evening of Monday, July 28, 2025, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie.

He was born on Sept. 15, 1943, in Muncie, a son of the late Ward Soloman Bookout and Beaulah May (Craw) Bookout Gallnitz.

Mike was a machinist, a farmer, and a tinkerer. On the exterior, he could come across a bit gruff, but on the inside, he was generous to a fault. He was loved by all, and especially by children.

Mike was a 1962 graduate of Mooreland High School and retired from Delco Remy in Anderson after many years as a tool and die maker. He was a member of the UAW #662 and a longtime dedicated member of the National Rifle Association.

He grew up on the family farm and farmed with his dad until Ward's passing in 1971. Mike then enjoyed farming with his son, Chris, until they decided to rent out the grounds in 1987.

Mike was inspired to dig a lake on his property, which became a beloved gathering spot for family and friends.

Mike loved fishing and canning, especially with his daughter, Melissa. He enjoyed tinkering in his garage, gardening, and playing cards. Mike had a special group of friends he loved to play dominoes with as often as possible. He was always hunting for his "next treasure" at auctions and flea markets. Mike and his son, Chris, spent three years restoring his pride and joy, a 1962 Corvette.

Mike closely guarded the secret recipe to the famous Bookout Salsa, which he made to perfection and oversaw the salsa canning event, which became an annual gathering of family and friends. He and Sheila enjoyed wintering in Jacksonville, Florida, and enjoyed being a "Certified Snowbird."

Those left to cherish Mike's memory include the love of his life, Sheila Horton; a sister, Nancy (Ron) Ammerman of Jacksonville Beach, FL; two children, Michael Christopher (Karen) Bookout and Melissa Bookout, both of Muncie; two grandsons, Zachary and Spencer Bookout of Losantville; his former wife, Sandra Bookout of Muncie, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 3 at Sproles Family Funeral Home with Pastor Jerry Bowlin officiating. Burial will follow in Mooreland Cemetery.

Friends may call from 12 p.m. until the time of the service, Sunday, Aug. 3 at the funeral home.

You may offer the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com.