Michael Francis Horigan

Michael Francis Horigan, age 78 of Fairborn, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday January 9, 2026. He was born on December 20, 1947 in New Paris, Ohio, the son of the late Francis and Jeannette (Eales) Horigan.

Mike grew up on a farm in New Paris and after graduating from Jefferson High School was drafted into the US Army. Upon completing Advanced Training and Jump School, he was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division. He proudly served in Vietnam where he was wounded in action and awarded two Purple Hearts.

After recovering from his injuries, Mike attended college and earned a degree in accounting. It did not take long for him to realize he was not cut out to sit at a desk, so he joined the Ohio State Highway Patrol where he served for many years before starting his own construction and concrete company.

Mike cared dearly for his family. He taught his grandchildren the importance of education (in and out of school), a strong work ethic, loving your family, taking time to enjoy and find humor in life. He ensured they learned to drive early on golf and go carts. Spending time with family, riding his motorcycle, traveling, and fixing any and everything filled his retirement.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Sharon Oakley and Saundra Reed. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Horigan; daughter, Christine (Mike) Coning; son, Michael (Katie) Horigan; stepchildren, Tracey (Andy) Croak and Ron (Sarah) Begley; brother, Mark Horigan; sister, Susan (Eddie) Reed; the lights of his life, grandchildren, Alexandra (Kye Jocham) Coning, Rowan and Grady Croak, Caden, Carson, Lynleigh and Loralei Begley, and Sloan and Declan Horigan; as well as many other extended family and friends, including lifelong buddies from the 101st.

Mike truly had a heart of gold, always looking out for others, finding calm in any storm. We lost him far too soon, but he could have lived to be a hundred and we’d likely have the same sentiment. He leaves behind a lifetime of lessons, shared love, and memories that will forever be in our hearts.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday January 13, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, Pastor H. Wesley Barnhill officiating. The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow at the Byron Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be mailed to Disabled American Veterans.