Michael H. Fernung , age 71 of Elwood, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023 at Beaumont Healthcare in Anderson following a brief illness.  He was born December 2, 1952 in Anderson, the son of William and Gertrude (Townsend) Fernung.  Mike was a 1970 graduate of Madison-Grant High school.  Mike grew up farming with his father and taking fishing trips across the U.S. and Canada.  Before taking over the farm, Mike enlisted in the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War.  Upon retirement from farming, Mike spent time rekindling his passion for horses and spent several years racing thoroughbreds.  Mike would eventually become a valued member of Red Gold where he worked in maintenance.  Mike had a mind for maintenance and was well known for his ability to fix anything out of nothing.  Though he was known to be a hard worker, he loved even harder.  Mike was a respected and well loved member of his community.  Above all else, he was most proud to be a father, a grandfather, an uncle, a son, and a friend.

Mike is survived by his 2 sons, Eric Fernung of Indianapolis and Chris Fernung of Marion; 5 grandchildren, Cheyanne Hasty, Damon Hasty, Jake Fernung, Luke Fernung and Christian Fernung; and 2 great-grandchildren, Renesmay and Tatum Graff.  Mike was preceded in death by his parents; brother, George "John" Fernung; and daughter, Michelle D. Ice.

A memorial service to honor Mike's life will take place at 1 pm on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Visitation will be held from 11 am to 1 pm prior to the service at the funeral home.  Military honors by the U.S. Army and Elwood V.F.W will take place at the funeral home as a part of the service.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.