Monroe Michael

SANDWICH -- Monroe Michael, 93, of 645 Holderness Road, died March 1, 2010, surrounded by his family.

He was born in New York City to Monroe and Marion Michael. He attended New York City public schools. As a young man he worked at various jobs and helped support the family following his father's death. He moved to Sandwich with his mother and siblings and later joined the Civilian Conservation Corps., working in New England and as far west as Colorado.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He was a proud member of the "Greatest Generation." He served in the European Campaign in the 825th Tank Destroyer Battalion attached to Headquarters Company as an escort commander to General Omar N. Bradley. He received numerous campaign medals.

IN HIS LIFE: After serving in the U.S. Army, he returned to Sandwich, where he and his brother, Phil, started Mike's Express, which he ran for a number of years.

In 1948, he married his beloved Bunny. They made their home on Holderness Road for more than 60 years.

He is survived by his wife, Bunny, (the former Bernice Adams Vittum); his sons Timothy, Kevin and his wife, Christina, Alex and his wife, Amanda, Lew Vittum and his wife, Sharon, as well as six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his son, Anthony, and brother, Phil.

Mike was a member of the Sandwich Federated Church and the Red Mountain Lodge No. 68 F. & A.M. and held membership in a number of local organizations including the American Legion Stokes Ballentine Post.

Mike enjoyed collecting coins and playing cards. He particularly enjoyed baseball, and cut a diamond in the field for his boys. Mike was part of the Sandwich Town Team.

He was probably best known as one of those wonderful guys who worked at the "The Store" in Sandwich for 30 plus years. His warm and friendly personality made everyone feel special and Mike will be missed by family and friends. He was rarely seen without Bunny by his side. They were always together, enjoying each other, their life and a wide circle of friends.

SERVICES: There will be no calling hours or funeral service. A graveside service will be held at a later date, at the family lot in Rural Cemetery, Sandwich.

Memorial donations may be made to Sandwich Fire & Rescue Squad, to be used at their discretion.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is in charge of the arrangements. www.wilkinsonbeane.com.