Michael Leroy Pendgraft

Michael Leroy Pendgraft, age 76 of Columbia, passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, February 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy built on love, hard work, service, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Mike was born on July 15, 1949 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. As a freshman in high school, his family moved to Camdenton, Missouri, a move that would shape the rest of his life. He became active in sports and school activities, but the most important thing was meeting his high school sweetheart, Pat, whose family had also just recently moved from Chicago, Illinois to the Lake area. What was young love grew to a lifelong partnership, and they were married on April 13, 1968, building a life together rooted in loyalty, strength, and deep love.

Mike proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in February 1975. The discipline, resilience, and sense of duty he carried from his time in the Marines stayed with him throughout his life.

After his service, Mike worked for a local dock building company until he took a construction job that would take him across Missouri and the southwestern United States. He soon turned that work into his own plumbing company. He loved the travel that came with the job-meeting new people, trying new things, and exploring new areas. On a few memorable trips to Colorado, he even took the opportunity to four-wheel through the mountains, embracing adventure whenever he could.

In 2013, when Pat suffered a stroke, Mike showed the depth of his devotion. Without hesitation, he stepped away from his business to become her full-time caregiver. He devoted himself completely to her care, learning to cook far beyond the barbecue grill, taking on the cleaning and laundry, and tending to Pat's beloved flowers so they bloomed just as she would like. Later on, when she was unable to get out to look at her flowers, he made sure he had flowers he could cut and bring into her to enjoy through the season.

Mike was, above all else, a family man. His world revolved around his beloved wife Pat and his girls. He was a proud father to Heather Jennings and loved Suzanne Ayers as his own daughter. Ashtyn and Jordan Ayers, who were like grandchildren to him, brought him immeasurable joy. Taking care of his girls wasn't something he did – it was who he was.

He also adored his grandpuppy, Oscar, who waited every afternoon at the backdoor for Grandpa to come get him until mom or dad got home – a daily joy Mike cherished.

He loved fishing, hunting, a round of golf, trying out new recipes. While Pat was in rehab at Univ of MO, Mike decided the students needed homemade Christmas cookies. That small act of kindness quickly grew to an annual tradition of baking around 30+ dozen cookies each year for family, friends, and neighbors. While the baking brought him joy, delivering the cookies brought him pure happiness.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Jim; his mother, Mary; and his brother, Tom. He is survived by his devoted wife, Pat; his daughters, Heather (Lance) and Suzanne (Randy); grandchildren Ashtyn and Jordan (Emily) and great-grandchildren Jensen, Harper, and Liam; his sister-in-law, Connie Pendgraft; and nephews Brian, Brett, and Brad.

Mike's strength, quiet sacrifice, love of adventure, and generosity will be remembered always. His example of service to his country and most of all to his family leaves a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all that knew him.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held at Parker-Millard Funeral Home from 1:00 pm to 3:00pm on Sunday February 22, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com