Michael Joseph Hess

Michael J. Hess, age 96 of Warren, died Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at his home. He was born on April 10, 1915 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of the late Peter and the late Magdelene (nee: Tellis) Hess.Michael's life was filled with beauty and blessings, but nothing could match the wonderful change that would fill his life when he promised himself in marriage to his adoring soulmate, Leona. At the young age of 22, he embarked on a storybook journey with his new bride, and the two would go on to share a lifetime of building a home, raising a family, and growing deeper in love together. This October 15th would have been their 74th wedding anniversary.For his career path, Michael was employed as a Machinist in the automotive industry. But the real and interesting story is how he achieved that status and experienced the successes for which he was most proud. As a young man with strong work ethics as his foundation, Michael was hired by a defense contractor during World War II who put him to work in a factory as a custodian. While attending to his duties, he was growing increasingly eager to know more about the skilled labor he was surrounded by in the workplace. With machinist's in abundance, each day would find him more anxious to learn their trade and be given a chance to expand his employment horizon. With a proven track record of dedicated service, the powers-to-be decided to give him that opportunity,...and" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">...and Michael was introduced to the world of machinist's. At war's end, when the defense necessities were replaced by the interests of the automotive industry, he was invited to remain aboard where his talents were realized in the fabrication of tubing for automotive electrical systems. He truly started out at the bottom and worked his way to the top,...a testament to the kind of man he was, and was known by all.When he wasn't working, Michael enjoyed a number of favorite pastimes. Being an avid reader, it wasn't uncommon to find him engrossed in a piece of interesting literature or a good book. He also found great enjoyment in being challenged by a rousing game of chess. He would play with anybody, even the computer in his later years. But perhaps his ultimate escape was when he ventured to a favorite fishing hole and would cast out his line in the hope of snagging "the big one." He loved to fish, and simply enjoyed the peacefulness and serenity that accompanied the sport.Michael was a loving husband, a devoted father,...and without question, a doting grandfather. His grandchildren meant the world to him, and he shared a unique and special relationship with each of them individually. With their eclectic array of interests and his desire to share in them all, Michael's heart and life were filled with a host of precious memories they created together over the years. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy of love, one that will be treasured always by those who were blesses to know him. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally. He was the beloved husband of Leona (nee: Yantz). Dear father of Diana (Carl) Olson and Gary (Diane) Hess. Loving grandfather of Michael (Tamao), Bryan, Marla (Bill), Michael (Greer), Lisa (Donnie), and great-grandfather of Stacey, Jeremy, Shanna, Danny, Christopher, and Erin. He was also the brother of Luella Vandervest.Arrangements were entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile Rd) in Warren.Please share memories of Michael at his guest book.