Dr. Michael D. Warner

Dr. Michael "Mick" Warner, often recognized by his trademark walk, went home to his Heavenly Father on January 4, 2026, at the age of 80, in South Bend, Indiana. Born on June 4, 1945, in Des Moines, Iowa, Mick's life was a testament to his intelligence, compassion, and dedication to serving others.

Mick's journey through life was marked by his unwavering Christian faith. He earned a Master of Divinity, which paved the way for his lifelong vocation as a pastor. He later attended Purdue University, where he earned his PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy. Mick devoted his life to the spiritual and emotional well-being of others. His early career saw him inspiring minds as a pastor and professor at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His passion for nurturing souls led him to serve as an outpatient counselor at Memorial Hospital and in his private clinic for over three decades.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Mick was a devoted family man. He was the beloved husband of Betsy C. Warner of Granger, Indiana, with whom he shared a life filled with love and devotion. He was a loving father to his children: Michelle (Daniel) Chester of Ohio; Jonathan (Nichole) Warner of Oregon; Kara (James) Mishler of South Bend, Indiana; Daniel (Rachel) Warner of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Kristopher (Hannah) Wilkins of Coco Beach, Florida.

Mick's legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Noah, Elisabeth, Emma, Bella, Elijah, Isaiah, Ellie, Gabriel, Violet, Madeline, Charlotte, and Rose, who will miss their grandfather's guidance and gentle wisdom. He was preceded in death by his grandchildren James Jr. and Emily.

Mick was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Cathryn (Greene) Warner; his stepmother, Noreen Warner; and his siblings, Linda Kay and Gary Warner. He is survived by his half-sisters, Kelli Mills of Illinois and Linda Drugsvold of Nebraska.

Those who knew Mick will remember him as a man of great intellect, profound faith, and deep compassion. His selfless nature was evident in every aspect of his life-from his commitment to his family to his dedication to his congregation and patients. Mick attended St. Paul Lutheran Church, where he further enriched his faith and knowledge, and he was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America.

As we remember Michael D. Warner, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that profoundly impacted all who had the privilege of knowing him. His teachings and love will continue to resonate within the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will be cherished forever.

In accordance with the family's wishes, Mick will be cremated, and no services will be held. Palmer Funeral Home-Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Contributions in memory of Mick may be made to Resurrection Lutheran Academy, 6840 Nimtz Parkway, South Bend, IN 46628; St. Paul Lutheran Church, 51490 Laurel Road, South Bend, IN 46637; or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, https://t2t.org/donate/

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.