Obituary of Lon Michael Woodruff

Woodruff, Lon Michael Sr. Sanford, Michigan Mr. Woodruff, age 65 passed away suddenly on Saturday July 4, 2015 at MidMichigan Medical Center, Midland, following a lengthy illness. Lon was born in Gladwin, Michigan on November 5, 1949 to the late Jack R. and Margaret R. (Cottrell) Woodruff. Lon joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1972. After basic training, his job was to repair radios used in helicopters; however, his desire was to fly in the helicopters. Eventually he realized his dream when he became a Crew Chief flying on Huey helicopters. He was honorably discharged in 1979 with the rank of Staff Sergeant and subsequently obtained the rank of Gunnery Sergeant while in the reserves. He was always so proud to be a Marine. "Once a Marine, always a Marine" OORAH! He was an avid fisherman (if you count all the leaves and twigs with the fish), loved his flowers and birds, loved to water everything in sight, start leaf fires and barbecue grills, loved to invent things, loved to cook, loved to watercolor, and loved Antiques. He had the best sense of humor, a sensitive tender nature, and was a joy to be around. He will be missed by so many. Lon is survived by his loving wife Diane (Wade) Woodruff, his son Lon "Butch" (Peggie) Woodruff Jr, his 2 daughters; Rebecca Woodruff and Amanda (Brian) Box. Also surviving are his sisters Sharmon Woodruff and Erica Woodruff, his brother Michael (Candi) Beebe, special nephews Eric (Candice) Gagne and Mark Gagne and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a large extended family, friends and wonderful neighbors. We cannot leave out his loyal dog Cody. He loved you one and all! He was preceded in death by his son Timothy J. Woodruff, grandson Jeffrey Woodruff, step mother Donna (Swinson-Witer) Woodruff and his dog Buddy. Cremation has taken place. A life celebration service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday July 12, 2015 at Hope Lutheran Church, 4758 Church Road, Rhodes, Michigan with Military Honors precisely at 2:22 P.M. The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday from 1:00 P.M. until the time of service. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Mid-Michigan. 1-888-273-3553. To sign online guestbook visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com. IF USING THE SYMPATHY STORE PLEASE SEND SYMPATHY ITEMS TO THE CHURCH ON SUNDAY OR TO THE FAMILY'S HOME.