Michael Jay Redman Sr.

Michael J. Redman Sr., 83, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 07, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and just one day after sharing in the joyful engagement celebration of his grandson, Reece, and fiancée, Sarah. The Redman family feels deeply blessed for the precious time they were able to spend together before his passing. Michael was born on February 14, 1943, in Jacksonville, Illinois, to Mary Cooper and Marvin Cooper. Tragedy struck early in his life when his father was killed in an automobile accident when Michael was just three years old. Several years later, at the age of ten, he was adopted by his stepfather, William Redman, whose surname he proudly carried throughout his life. Raised in Danville, Illinois, Mike attended Danville High School, where he distinguished himself as an accomplished athlete and developed the strong character, determination, and larger-than-life personality that would define him throughout his years. Following graduation, Mike enlisted in the United States Army, serving honorably from 1962 to 1965 as a Combat Engineer. His service included deployments to both Korea and Vietnam. During his military career, he earned certifications as a Sharpshooter with the M14 and M1 rifles and as an Expert Carbine Marksman. In one of the most harrowing experiences of his service, Mike survived a helicopter crash in Korea and endured several days stranded in rice fields before being rescued by a medical unit. His courage, resilience, and dedication to his country remained a source of pride throughout his life. Upon returning home to Danville, Mike married the love of his life, Suzanne K. Redman, on January 7, 1967, in Allerton, Illinois. Together they built a life grounded in love, family, and hard work. Suzanne preceded him in death in 2021 after more than five decades of marriage. Mike and Suzanne eventually settled in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and later at Snow Lake in Fremont, Indiana, where they raised their two sons, Michael and Ryan. Mike enjoyed a long and successful career in the waterworks industry, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike through his work ethic, knowledge, and integrity. Retirement proved short-lived, as he soon joined each of his sons in their respective businesses, where his wisdom, humor, and presence made him beloved by friends, employees, colleagues and customers alike. Mike embraced life fully and found joy in the simple pleasures that meant the most to him. He loved lake life, boating, water sports, golfing, fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends. Above all, he treasured his role as a grandfather and took immense pride in each of his grandchildren, as well as his best friend and personal companion, his dog Sammy. He is survived by his sons, Michael and Amie Redman of Zionsville, Indiana, and Ryan and Heather Redman of Fishers, Indiana; his grandchildren, Reece (Sarah) Redman, Bryce Redman, Estella Redman, Mason Redman, Ava Redman, Lilly Redman, Cooper Redman; along with many extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by his friendship, humor, and generosity. Mike will be remembered for his strength, resilience, unwavering devotion to family, and the countless stories, lessons, and memories he leaves behind. His legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey. Mike was protected and guided by God’s hand through both triumphs and trials. His family finds comfort in the words of Psalm 121:7–8: “The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” They take peace in knowing that God watched over Mike throughout his earthly journey and, in His perfect timing, called him home. Visitation will be held from 1 pm until 3 pm Thursday, June 25, 2026 at Beams Funeral Home. Funeral Services will follow at 3 pm Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Beams Funeral Home in Fremont, Indiana. Full Military Honors will follow in recognition of his faithful service to the United States Army. Though he will be deeply missed, Mike’s family finds comfort in knowing he lived a full and meaningful life and that his memory will continue to guide and inspire those who knew and loved him.