Michael "Mike" Patrick Axe

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Michael Patrick Axe—beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend—who passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, at the age of 84.

Born on March 2, 1941, in Ohio, Mike lived a life defined by quiet strength, humor, and enduring love for his family. A proud Army veteran, he served his country with honor and received an honorable discharge before embarking on a long and dedicated career with Northrop Grumman, where he worked for 30 years until his retirement.

Mike’s story is one of love and devotion. While stationed in the Army, he proposed to the love of his life, Glenna, by mailing her an engagement ring—an act that speaks volumes of his heart and intentions. The two married on June 25, 1965, and settled in Fullerton, California, in 1968. There, they built a warm and welcoming home that became the heart of countless family gatherings and cherished memories.

Preceded in death by his beloved wife Glenna, his brother Thomas, and his sons Steve Marshall and Robert Axe, Mike leaves behind a legacy of resilience, humor, and deep familial devotion. He is survived by his sister, Teresa Boggess; sons John Axe (Lisa) and Larry Axe; grandchildren Randi Fien (Brian), Eric Axe (Cherie), Zach Marshall, and Sean Marshall; and five great-grandchildren: Brandon, Adam, and Kyle Fien, and Dylan and Madison Axe.

Mike was a man of many talents and boundless energy. Whether fishing at dawn, hunting in the quiet woods, or fixing up something around the house, he approached every task with enthusiasm and skill. He was an avid camper and traveler who found joy in simple pleasures—sharing a hearty meal, telling stories guaranteed to induce laughter--usually at Mike's expense, or dreaming aloud about building a log cabin in Montana, complete with a wood-burning stove for the whole family to gather around.

In his later years, Mike continued to give of himself selflessly. He delivered food to neighbors in need, lent a hand with home repairs and yardwork, and was always just a phone call away. In quieter moments, he could be found building birdhouses in his shed, tending to his tomato and rose garden, enjoying a trip to Costco, or watching his favorite episodes of Judge Judy. And no matter how late it got, if someone mentioned bedtime, Mike would flash a grin and say, “I’m going dancing.”

Mike's life was a testament to the power of kindness, hard work, and unwavering love for family. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with Glenna and his loved ones who passed before him. His spirit will forever echo in the laughter around the dinner table, the warmth of a fire on a camping trip, and the hum of a workshop alive with creativity.

A celebration of Mike's incredible life will be held in accordance with Mike’s wishes on June 7, 2025, from 12-4pm at his Fullerton home: 1901 Jacaranda Pl, Fullerton CA, 92833.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Mike’s legacy by lending a hand to someone in need, enjoying a day outdoors, or taking a spin around the dance floor in his memory.

He may be gone from our sight, but he will never be gone from our hearts.