Michael J "Mike" Haviland

Obituary of Michael J Haviland

Michael J. Haviland ("Mike"), age 78, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 6, at Capital Health Medical Center in Hopewell, following a brief illness.

Born on June 19, 1947, to the late Carlton and Belmere (DeHart) Haviland, Mike was raised in Ossining, Westchester County, New York, alongside his siblings. For the past 13 years, he made his home in Lebanon Township, Hunterdon County, where he lived with his beloved sister, Fran, and brother-in-law, Tom.

After graduating from high school, Mike proudly enlisted in the United States Army and served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with four bronze service stars. During his service, Mike also served as a Chaplain's Assistant. He was honorably discharged and later deemed 100% disabled due to service-related injuries and PTSD.

Despite the personal challenges he faced, Mike's love for his country never wavered. After returning home, he remained deeply involved with the VA Lyons Hospital, where he spent countless hours visiting and caring for fellow Veterans, tending not only to their needs but also to their spirits. Though he battled health issues in recent years, Mike showed remarkable resilience and always seemed to bounce back. Even while managing his own struggles, he remained steadfast in supporting others, especially his fellow Veterans.

Mike found great joy in organizing trips across the country with his friends from the VA, cherishing the camaraderie they shared. Visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall was especially meaningful to him, a deeply moving experience he carried in his heart. Closer to home, he treasured long days fly fishing along the South Branch of the Raritan River, always looking ahead to planning the next outing.

Known to family and friends as a man of deep faith and a devoted Christian, Mike was generous with his time and talents. Blessed with a quick wit, he brought warmth, light, and laughter to those around him. He will be dearly missed.

Mike is survived by his sister, Frances Foreman, and her husband, Tom, along with many loving nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. He was predeceased by his eldest brother, Bruce Haviland of Pawling, New York (2024), and his sister, Ann (Haviland) Young of Cabot, Arkansas (2016).

A celebration of Mike's life will be held in April. A private burial will take place at Washington Crossing Veterans Cemetery in Newtown, Pennsylvania, followed by the scattering of his ashes at his favorite fishing spot along the South Branch of the Raritan River in Califon.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Mike's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project. Please Click Here to Donate