Mike Waldner

Mike S. "Metz" Waldner, 79, our beloved Husband, Dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa, was taken into the merciful arms of our dear heavenly Father on March 14, 2022. He died peacefully in his sleep.

Mike was born July 29, 1942, to Samuel and Elisabeth Waldner in Rockport Colony. At the age of four, he moved to Rosedale Colony. He was later baptized upon his confession of faith and then united in marriage to Sarah Wipf on June 15, 1964. They were blessed with five beautiful children and shared 57 years together. They moved to White Rock in October 1964 where he resided until the time of his death.

Mike managed the hog barns for 18 years. In 1981 he became the general manager and served the Colony for 25 years, retiring in 2006. He faithfully performed these duties with wholehearted enthusiasm and dedication. After retiring, he worked in the electric shop until his health forced him to retire completely. For the last two years, Grandma lovingly and patiently took care of him.

Through his kind and friendly personality, Mike was gifted with countless friends, many who stopped by to visit in his last years. Any visitors brought a smile to his face and brightened his day, especially these last few months when he couldn't leave the house anymore. He especially loved it when his grandchildren and great-grandchildren came to visit. The highlight of his day was looking out the window watching the squirrels eat and play. He also loved telling stories of the good old days.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife Sarah ,

Two sons: Michael (AnnMarie) of White Rock

Elie (Marian) of White Rock

Three daughters: Sara (Terry) of Silver Lake

Kathryn (Kenny) of White Rock

Dorothy (Darius) of New Elm

Seven Brothers: Samuel (Susanna) of Minnesota

Valentine (Maria) of Spring Prairie

Jacob (Sarah) of Millbrook

John (Ketura) of Cameron

Thomas (Marie) of Millbrook

Reuben (Anna) of Cameron

George (Margaret) of Rosedale

Two Sisters: Dora of Hillcrest

Lydia of Minnesota

27 Grandchildren

18 Great-Grandchildren

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law, six brothers-in-law, four sisters, one sister-in-law, and three great-grandchildren.

Goodbyes are not forever.

Goodbyes are not the end.

Goodbye just means I'll miss you.

Until we meet again.