Michael M. “Mike” Witte, 88, Jasper
Michael M. “Mike” Witte, 88, of Jasper, passed away with family by his side at 12:45 a.m. on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Scenic Hills at the Monastery.
Mike was born in Bristow, Indiana, on February 11, 1938, to Carl and Evelyn (Mayfield) Witte.
He married Ruth Beyke on June 29, 1961, in St. Joseph Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on May 21, 2024.
Mike served in the U.S. Army, where he grew a love for cooking. After his time in the Army, he joined his father, Carl, at the Parket Market, where he became co-owner and later full owner. He loved talking with all his customers and serving the community. He also worked at Jasper Engines and Transmissions for over 20 years in different capacities, building many lasting friendships.
He was very involved at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church where he served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, TEC retreat support preparing many meals, was instrumental in building of the new parish center while on the Finance Committee. He was involved with Habitat for Humanity and Mentors for Youth (Big Brothers Big Sisters).
He was best known for his friendliness, sarcasm, jokes, and always having a smile on his face.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, uncle, brother, grandad and friend. He enjoyed cooking, gardening, reading, golfing, and making horseradish with friends every year. He loved traveling, spending time at car races, watching IU sports, and being with his family. He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather.
He wished to share these words: “Have fun, no sorrow. I lived a good life.”
He is survived by his two children, Mick Witte (Mary) of Zionsville and Shaun Skerbitz (Jon) of Jasper; five grandchildren, Michael III (Madeline), Ally, and Anna Witte, CC and Sebastian Skerbitz; two great-grandchildren, Cora and Michael Witte IV; brother, Carl “Bud” Witte of Jasper; sister, Nancy de Luca of Buellton, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews.
Besides his wife, he is preceded in death by one sister, Mary Ann Bawel; brothers-in-law: Ralph de Luca and Ray Bawel; sister-in-law: Jane Witte; niece: Linda Boyer; and nephews: Timothy Kling and Jeffrey Bawel.
A Memorial Mass for Michael M. Witte will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. The American Legion Post #147 will perform military rites at the church. An interment will be held at a later date.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. on Monday at the church.
The family would like to thank Heart-to-Heart Hospice, Legacy Lane at Scenic Hills at the Monastery, especially Connie, Bill, Emma T., Danielle, and the rest of the staff on 700 and 800 hall, for giving Dad an extra year of activity, joy, friendship, love, and respect.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church or www.mentors4youth.com
Online condolences may be made at www.becherkluesner.com.
