Michael Allen "Mike" Karsten

Michael Allen "Mike" Karsten, age 56, of Athens passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Tuesday afternoon, August 14, 2018. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on March 17, 1962, the son of Harold and Geraldine (Talsma) Karsten. Mike faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Air Force from 1981 to 1987, and retired from II Stanley for medical reasons in 2012 after more than 15 years of service.

Mike married the "Love of His Life", Janice M. "Jan" (Neeley) Karsten on September 6, 2012; she survives. He is also survived by his mother, Geraldine Karsten of Grand Rapids; five children, Michael Walker of Battle Creek, Kimberly (Rudy) Hubek of Louisiana, Teresa (Mike) Barnebee of Burlington, Melissa Karsten of Kentucky and Michelle Karsten of New Jersey; six grandchildren; his dog, "Lexie"; brother, Leonard Mills; sister, Elaine (Dennis) Knaak; and several nieces & nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Harold Karsten; brother, Albert Mills; and sister, Denise Simon.

Mike enjoyed spending time in his work shop, wood working and tinkering. He also enjoyed watching old movies, listening to Rock & Roll, old cars, and remote controlled-boats, cars & planes, but his true passion in life, was spending time with his family.

The family will receive friends 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, August 17, 2018 at Farley Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care where funeral services to celebrate Mike's life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, August 18, 2018. Interment will follow at Dowling Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making donations to the Southwest Michigan Veteran Relief Fund, P.O. Box 2528 Battle Creek, MI 49016 or to Veterans Helping Veterans SWMI, 354 N. 27th Street Springfield, MI 49037. Personal messages for the family and/or favorite memories of Mike may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.