Michael Eugene Whitehead

Michael (Mike) Eugene Whitehead passed away on February 6, 2026, at Reid Health in Richmond, Indiana, following a long and difficult period of illness. He was surrounded by the family who loved him most as he finally found his well-deserved rest.

Mike was born on December 27, 1953, at St. John's Hospital in Anderson, IN. Later adopted by Marvin and Edith Whitehead, he was raised in the Randolph County community. He was a 1973 graduate of Winchester Community High School and became a Randolph County Deputy Sheriff and eventually served 20+ years at the Winchester Fire Department. He led his community as Winchester Street Superintendent for many years, completing many projects throughout his term. Mike was a hard worker and contributed his skills to the mold-making industry for many years thereafter, retiring from Ardagh.

A proud Eagle Scout, he was a man of the outdoors who found his peace with a fishing pole in his hand or under the hood of a car. He enjoyed spending time out in nature at the Farmland Conservation Club and its shooting range. Mike loved to go out to eat, especially if seafood was on the menu or if it was an all-you-can-eat buffet. 

Above all, Mike was a proud grandfather. Whether he was at a baseball or soccer game or school event, his grandkids were his greatest joy. He spent his happiest moments outside, accompanied by his loyal dogs, most recently his faithful companion, Boomer.

Mike is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Rosemary Whitehead; their children, Michael (Jennie) Whitehead, Brady (Jennifer) Whitehead, and Shawna Bailey; and his beloved dog, Boomer.

He leaves behind ten grandchildren: Zoe (Jaron) Alexander, Dravin Whitehead, Leah Kettler, Alex Kettler, Lauren Whitehead, Dylan Whitehead, Justin Whitehead, Amanda Bailey, Andrew Kellerman, and Nicholas Kellerman.

He is also survived by his siblings: Special sister-in-law Rhonda (George) Daggett, Larry (Janice) Marshall, Mark Marshall, Keith (Debbie) Worth, Aprile (Stan) Reed, Jim Hutton, and Kathy Tribble, along with a large, loving circle of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Michael joins those who went before him: his parents, Marvin and Edith; his sister, Bonnie Bray; and his brother, Roger Long.

Family and friends may gather to share memories on Wednesday, February 11th, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Walker Funeral Home. A service celebrating Mike's life will follow Thursday, February 12th, at 11:00 am with a calling an hour before. Burial will take place at Fountain Park Cemetery.

Walker Funeral Home in Winchester is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerswinchester.com.

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