Michael D. fitterling

Michael D. FItterling March 17, 1940 - August 28, 2025 , affectionately known as Mike, passed away peacefully at the age of 85, surrounded by his loving family at home.

Mike was born to Harold and Veda (Foss) Fitterling at home in Culver. He was a lifelong resident and a graduate of Culver High School.

A true mechanical virtuoso, Mike began his career repairing small engines - outboard motors, chainsaws, and lawn mowers - before becoming a trusted auto mechanic in Culver and Plymouth. He later transitioned into a service writer role, bringing his deep knowledge and warm personality to the front desk.

In earlier years, he also served his community as a school bus driver and Justice of the Peace in Culver.

Mike's passion for classic cars was unmatched. A proud member and multi-term President of the Hoosier Old Wheels Car Club, he also chaired the H.O.W. Car Show at the Marshall County Blueberry Festival for several years.

One of his proudest moments came on July 19, 2025, when he rode in the Culver Lakefest Parade, which turned out to be his last parade in his meticulously restored 1918 Dodge Brothers Touring Car - an antique he had lovingly rebuilt, crafting wheel spokes and sewing the canvas top himself.

He was an active member of the Dodge Brothers Car Club, trailering the 1918 to events across the country.

Among his many restoration projects, Mike took particular pride in rebuilding a 1963 Studebaker Avante from boxes of parts - finishing with only three pieces left unused. Just a week after its maiden 14-mile drive around Lake Maxinkickee, he and Jan embarked on a 3,400 mile journey along Route 66.

in the 1970s and '80s, Mike could often be found in his pole barn working on stock cars for local amateur races, driven by Leroy Skiles, Jim Blount, and later his nephew, ASA Racer Scott Keyser.

Mike was deeply committed to education and served on the SCILL Board, helping high school students gain hands-on experience in automotive technology.

He was also a dedicated member and trustee of Pretty Lake Trinity United Methodist Church in Plymouth, Indiana.

A man of many interests, Mike enjoyed playing Euchre with friends, attending National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association meets in Friendship, Indiana, square dancing with the Dixie Walkers in Walkerton, and was a past member of the Henry H. Culver Masonic Lodge.

As a skilled carpenter, Mike built his own home in the countryside and crafted numerous heirloom pieces, including seven grandfather clocks from a walnut tree in his parent's yard, ice box replicas, blanket chests, a doll display case, curio cabinet, and more. His creativity and craftsmanship were evident in every detail.

Mike was know for his signature black-and-white checkerboard Vans shoes - a playful touch that matched his spirited personality. Today, we imagine him walking the streets of gold, reunited with loved ones and surrounded by the joy he brought to so many.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 12 years, Jan Shore Fitterling, his daughter, Michelle Cissna and son-in-law, Dennis (Mike), granddaughters: Kathleen Aman and Stephanie (Kyle) Hilliard, and great-grandchildren: Chloe, Liam, and Zander Aman, and Carson, Nolan, Ethan, Camden, and Tate Hilliard. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Keyser, many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and his 'furry' canine daughter, Hope.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Theresa Cihak Fitterling, his parents, Harold and Veda Fitterling, brother Robin Fitterling, and brothers-in-law James Shore and Jack Keyser.

A time of visitation will be held at Pretty Lake Trinity United Methodist Church on Sunday, September 7, 2025 from 2:00 - 8:00 p.m. EST, and Monday, September 8, 2025 from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. EST, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Marybeth Scheibel.

A private burial will take place at a later date.

In honor of Mike's love for animals, memorial contributions may be made to the Marshall County Humane Society.