Mike Unertl

Michael "Mike" Wayne Unertl, 67, Lamar, Mo., passed away at 8:22 p.m. on Nov. 1, 2021, at Cox Health Medical Center South. He was born Nov. 8, 1953, in Los Angeles. He was the son of Creda Mae (Mitts) Unertl and Charles Franklin Unertl (adoptive father) and Harold Trout (biological father). 

Mike grew up in Alburnett, Iowa, and lived most of his life in and around Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He worked as a machinist for over 30 years, but was truly a jack of all trades when it came to fixing cars, working on houses or farming. 

Never having met a stranger, Mike enjoyed being surrounded by friends and family. He was a great storyteller and quick to laugh, he appreciated a good meal, especially when shared with others, and he wouldn't hesitate to teach one how to two-step while singing a line or two of a favorite country song. 

Camping, fishing, boating or just taking off to explore someplace new, Mike was always on the move. He loved to travel and visit those he loved. His light-hearted spirit and sense of adventure will be missed most and will continue to bring life to those who knew him well. 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Deborah Lea Unertl, Sandra Sue (Unertl) Hamann and Cheryl Marie Unertl; and his grandson, Levi Parker Domingus. 

He is survived by his brother, Francis (Frank) Charles Unertl; and his daughters and their husbands, Kimberlee Jean (Unertl) Sia (Andrew), Carrie Lynne (Unertl) McWherter (Todd), Sarah Mae (Unertl) Domingus (Jeff) and Molly Michael (Unertl) Letsch (Dante). He is also survived by his 11 grandchildren and the mother of his children, Deborah (Debbie) Jean (Sutton) Frank, and her husband, Stacey. 

A memorial service to honor Mike will be held at a later date. An announcement will be shared. Condolences and memories can be shared at bit.ly/michaelwayneunertl.