Michael Wayne Joines

Michael Wayne Joines, age 84, of North Bend, WA passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025. A man of grit, wisdom, and quiet kindness, Mike leaves behind a legacy of strength, integrity, faith and deep devotion to his family.

Born in New Castle, Indiana, to Herman and Virginia Joines, Mike was the youngest of two sons. He was raised on the family farm and forged early values of hard work and perseverance, shaped by a blue-collar upbringing and his father's work at the steel mill. Mike graduated in 1959 from Walter P. Chrysler Memorial High School, where he stood out not only as captain of the football team and class president but also as the school mascot-proudly donning the Spartan costume, a role only he could fill, both figuratively and literally-he was the only one who could fit into it.

He began his college years at Vanderbilt University and later graduated in 1964 from Ball State University. An avid outdoorsman, Mike found peace and purpose in the woods and on the water. He passed on his love for hunting, fishing, and hiking to his children, along with his reverence for tradition and history.

Mike built his career in pharmaceutical sales with Norwich Eaton, continuing through the company's acquisition by Procter & Gamble, where he served as a respected manager until his retirement in 1997. He was known among colleagues for his steady leadership, work ethic, and sharp sense of humor.

Mike had a lifelong love for Westerns-especially those starring John Wayne-and spent countless hours watching films that reflected his values of courage and conviction. He was a dedicated student of American history, particularly the Civil War and the Lewis & Clark expedition, often planning road trips to historic battlefields and sites. Florida was his favorite vacation destination, with Key West holding a special place in his heart.

At the core of Mike's life was a quiet but unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Though never loud about his beliefs, he lived them daily-with integrity, humility, and compassion. His piety was steady and sincere, evident in his love for others, his commitment to doing what was right, and his deep sense of purpose. He was a man who walked with the Lord in everyday ways-faithful in the small things, devoted in heart and action.

He married Linda Ivey in 1960, and together they had four children: Bret, Kimberly, Julie, and Elizabeth. In 1980, Mike married Claudia Clark, his beloved partner of 45 years. They raised two sons, James and Gregory.

Mike is survived by his wife, Claudia; his six children: Bret, Kimberly, Julie, Elizabeth, James, and Gregory; and 8 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Virginia Joines, and his older brother, Richard, who passed away in 2004.

A family gathering to honor and remember Mike's life will be held in New Castle at a forthcoming date.

To know Mike was to know quiet strength, steady presence, and a warm, knowing smile. His legacy lives on in the character of his children, the memories made in the wilderness and kitchens, and in every Western movie watched with a bowl of popcorn and M&M's.

"Well done, good and faithful servant…enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:23

Local arrangements and burial in South Mound Cemetery have been entrusted to the care of Sproles Family Funeral Home. You may offer the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com.

The Sproles family and staff are honored to serve the family of Michael Wayne Joines.