Michael Ray Hantsbarger, 68, of Meriden passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Mercy One in Sioux City, surrounded by family.
Public visitation with the family present was held Wednesday, May 21, at Greenwood-Schubert Funeral Home in Cherokee. A private family burial will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.greenwoodfuneral.com.
Mike was born in Sioux City on March 10, 1957. He was adopted and raised lovingly by Raymond and Norma (Blumhoff) Hantsbarger of Meriden.
Mike graduated from Meriden-Cleghorn High School in 1975. He was active in band, playing the trumpet.
Mike was united in marriage to Jean (Ruppert) on Aug. 19, 1995. They raised their two daughters, Kaya and Abby, in Meriden.
Mike was a skilled guitarist and enjoyed figuring out how to play songs by ear. Mike played guitar with friends in their band, The Nobodies, in the early 90s. Mike had a green thumb, nurturing many plants in his garden.
Mike was the chef of the family, enjoying cooking, baking and canning. Mike loved spending time outside, going backpacking, camping or simply watching the birds.
Mike was also known as a cat lover, taking care of many feline companions over the years.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Norma and Raymond Hantsbarger; grandparents: Frederick and Wilma Blumhoff; and Wilbur and Winifred Hantsbarger.
Mike is survived by his wife Jean; daughters, Kaya and Abby; and sister Rebecca “Becky” Hantsbarger.
