Obituary of Michael Francis Van Wert

Age 71, much beloved by his family and friends, left this world to go with God on November 17, 2023. He left this world surrounded by the love of family, transitioning to a place of eternal peace. He will be remembered not only for his achievements but also for his generosity, compassion, and the joy he brought to those fortunate enough to know him.

He was born in Elmira to the late John H. and Marguerite (Waldron) Van Wert. As a lifelong resident of Chemung County, he graduated from Notre Dame High School and SUNY Brockport. He retired in 2019 from Woodbrook Assisted Living, where he always showed kindness to those that worked and lived there.

Mike lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to those around him. As a parent, Mike was the guiding light for his three sons (Mark, Peter, Tim) and one daughter (Patty). He instilled in them values of kindness, resilience, and the importance of family bonds. He loved spending time with family and friends, and always enjoyed telling and hearing a good story. Mike was an avid hiker and then transitioned to working out daily at the local gym.  After retirement, he renewed his interest in carpentry and was able to craft beautiful tables and benches for his family, among other projects.  Mike's departure leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love he so freely gave during his time on this earth.

Mike is survived by his wife of 51 years, Mary (Spaziani) Van Wert; sons, Mark Van Wert and wife Sal, Peter Van Wert and wife Alicia, Timothy Van Wert and wife Ashly Emmer; daughter Patricia McMahon and husband John; his siblings, Teresa Benedict and husband James, William Van Wert, and John Van Wert and Julie Foster; eight grandchildren: Delia Van Wert, Jack and Lena Van Wert, Lily and Max Van Wert, Margaret, Gabriella and Bernadette McMahon; brothers-in-law: John Spaziani and James Spaziani; sister-in-law: Anne Orlando with husband Matthew; and much loved nieces and nephews.  He also leaves behind many close friends that were so treasured by him.  Mike was predeceased by sisters-in-law, Muriel Spaziani and Liz Maloney. 

His family are grateful to Dr. Roberto Mauri of Elmira and Dr. Mina Chung from Cleveland Clinic for their many years of care and dedication to his health and well-being.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Mike’s name to Notre Dame High School, 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday December 11, 2023, at St. Mary’s Church, 224 Franklin Street, Elmira, NY.  Committal prayers and interment will follow at St. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery.  Friends and family are invited to join in honoring and remembering a remarkable individual who enriched the lives of many.