Michael T. Vergot

Michael T. Vergot, 69, passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 18, 2023, at his home in Stevensville.

Mike was born on Sept. 20, 1953, in Benton Harbor, to the late John and Donna (Ruthsatz) Vergot, who lived on their farm in Stevensville where they raised Mike and his four siblings.

Mike spent his entire life in Michigan, most of which was spent working the family farm with his parents and siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, John Jr., "Butch."

Surviving Mike are his son, Michael (June) Vergot Jr., of Battle Creek, Mich., and granddaughters: Chloe and Bailey. He also leaves to cherish his memory his sisters: Susan (Mark) Benson of Rapid City, S.D., and Kathy (Ivan) LaHaie of Grass Lake and brother, Timothy Vergot of Stevensville.

As a child, Mike worked on the family farm and fruit stand alongside his four siblings. He was an active participant in the Lakeshore High School Future Farmers of America and a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He later worked for Krieger's Nursery, as well as Meijer, before returning to help run the farm with his parents and brother Tim.

Mike was always a farmer at heart, and nobody worked harder at it. He especially enjoyed caring for the produce in the field despite the back-breaking labor it entailed. He was simply doing his part in the family's commitment to providing the highest quality produce to the farm stand's customers. His favorite pastimes were socializing with the help and area farmers in the field and at the fruit stand. He also enjoyed shopping at the local Ace Hardware.

Mike's greatest joy was spending time with his son and granddaughters. Their visits to the farm were without question his favorite days. Whether picking up potatoes, laying irrigation, or simply going to get something quick to eat – it didn't matter. Just as long as they were together. They rarely missed a trip to the Berrien County Youth Fair, and he took great pride in his granddaughter Chloe's 4-H honors. Mike also cherished the opportunity to attend his 50th high school reunion in 2022 and reminisce with all his old classmates.

Mike had the patience of a saint with the girls or anyone else who asked him a question, so long as they were willing to listen to what he had to say. He was a good teacher if not a great communicator. He also never, ever forgot how to have fun like a kid.

Mike greatly appreciated the friendship of all those who were part of the family farm "posse," especially Robin Hamilton and her daughter, Lauryn, and Pete and Cheryl Vergot. Most importantly, he was deeply indebted to his brother, Tim, for the love, companionship and camaraderie they shared in the years following their parents' death.

In keeping with his family's wishes, there will be a celebration of life from 2-5 p.m. on Oct. 8, at Grande Mere Inn in Stevensville.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mike's memory to the Berrien County Youth Fair, P.O. Box 7, Berrien Springs, MI 49103.

Memories and condolences may be left for his family at www.purelycremations.org.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Purely Cremation Services, Benton Harbor.