Michael Wayne Neihoff, 73, of West Palm Beach, Florida, was welcomed home to Heaven on July 7, 2026.
Born on October 1, 1952, to the late Phillip and Grace Younker Neihoff, Mike was raised in Paducah, Kentucky, alongside his older brother, the late Larry Neihoff, and his older sister, the late Vickie Hodges.
He was, at heart, an outdoorsman who found joy in life's simple pleasures. Whether he was camping beneath the stars, casting a fishing line into the water, scouring the skies for a Bald Eagle, riding horseback, or enjoying the peacefulness of farm life, he felt most at home surrounded by nature.
Some of his happiest early memories were made exploring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, spending time at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, boating on Kentucky Lake, and gathering family and friends in the backyard for a barbecue. Music also held a special place in his heart, and he loved relaxing with his guitar.
On June 23, 1973, he married the love of his life, Marian Kay (Hayden) Neihoff, beginning a marriage filled with love, devotion, and countless cherished memories. Life for Mike and Kay became even sweeter in 1981, when a bouncing baby boy with big brown eyes, whom they named Jeremy, completed their family of three. From that moment on, Mike's greatest adventures were no longer the places he explored, but the memories he created with his family. He delighted in sharing his love of the outdoors with Jeremy, taking him hiking through the mountains, fishing on quiet lakes, horseback riding along scenic trails, and making treasured trips to the beautiful beaches of Florida.
A proud graduate of St. Mary High School in Paducah, Kentucky, Class of 1970, Mike began his working life at Yopp Seed Company while still in high school. He later worked at Paducah Marine Ways, building barges. There, his hard work and leadership abilities earned him a promotion to Foreman, where he led crews with skill and integrity. In 1972, Mike became a dedicated member of Local 40 Boilermakers, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic and commitment as a mechanic. Mike retired in 2002.
Newly retired, Mike embraced what would become his greatest role yet-that of "Grandpa." The joy of becoming a grandfather inspired Mike and Kay to move from Kentucky to West Palm Beach, Florida, to be closer to their son, daughter-in-law, and growing family. Mike had the privilege of being "Paw-Paw" to four wonderful grandchildren. He was their biggest fan, faithfully attending baseball games, dance recitals, gymnastics practices, school awards ceremonies, and graduations whenever he could. His unwavering presence spoke volumes about the pride and unconditional love he had for each of them. The years spent in Florida, watching his family grow and flourish, brought Mike immeasurable joy.
Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his love, laughter, gentle spirit, and sense of adventure will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Mike will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his hardworking spirit, his appreciation for music and family gatherings, and the kindness and warmth he shared so freely. His legacy lives on in the countless memories he created, the lessons he taught, and the lives he touched.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Marian Kay (Hayden) Neihoff; his son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Kristin Neihoff of Westlake, Florida; and his cherished grandchildren, Hayden Neihoff, Hailey Neihoff, Hannah Neihoff, and Hudson Neihoff.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home.
Graveside services will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at St. John Cemetery with Father Bruce Fogle officiating.
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