Michael John Kimmel

Michael John Kimmel, lovingly known as Mike, passed away on December 27, 2025. Known for his kindness, patience, and big heart, Mike treated everyone he met with warmth and respect and made friends wherever he went.

Mike married the love of his life, Cristi Jo Combs Kimmel, on December 2, 1994. They shared more than 31 fabulous years of marriage, filled with laughter, partnership, and deep love.

He was a proud father to Meghan Kimmel of Dallas, Texas; Kristen Kimmel Mathews of Dallas, Texas; and son-in-law Thomas Mathews. One of Mike’s greatest joys was being “Grampsio” to his beloved granddaughters, Katherine Mathews (9) and Jorie Mathews (5), who brought endless smiles to his life.

Mike is survived by his sisters, Florence Kimmel McClure and Margaret Kimmel Hrubenek, and his brother, David Kimmel (Marge). He was preceded in death by his father, David Kimmel; his mother, Marjorie Jane Kimmel; his younger brother, William Kimmel; and brothers-in-law, Michael McClure and George Hrubenek.

Mike graduated from SUNY Potsdam and enjoyed a fulfilling career with AT&T, EDS, AOL, and Somos. He retired in March 2018, and in January 2019 moved with Cristi to what he proudly called his forever home on the lake in Clarksville.

In retirement, Mike fully embraced community life. He was a founding member of Buggs Island Brewing, where he co-hosted a beloved summer cornhole tournament. He was an active member of the Clarksville YMCA, where he made many friends playing ping pong every Friday. He discovered a passion for woodworking, creating beautiful pieces for friends and family.

Much to his own surprise, Mike also found a love for acting. He became an enthusiastic member of the Clarksville Community Players, performing as Raynerd Chisum in Christmas Belles and preparing to appear in the current production of Guys and Dolls. He was a member of the Double Nickels, performing in the Variety Show and the Dinner Mystery Theater production of Murder at the Clarksville Tavern.

A lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, Mike brought the same loyalty, optimism, and enthusiasm to game days as he did to his family, friendships, and community.

Mike was the kind of person everyone hopes to know – generous with his time, quick to help, and endlessly kind. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed. We take comfort in knowing that his goodness lives on in the many lives he touched.

Memorial services will be held Monday, January 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Watkins Cooper Lyon Funeral Home in Clarksville, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Mike’s memory to support the Clarksville Community Players at https://clarksvilleplayers.org/capital-campaign