Michael Metzger

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Michael Lee Metzger, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, who left this world peacefully on February 24, 2024, at the age of 81. His final days were spent at home, on the land he revered, encircled by the warmth of his spouse and the generations of family he helped nurture.

Michael’s early years were marked by a fateful encounter at Kent State University where he crossed paths with his soulmate, turning what he always described as a ‘love-at-first-sight’ encounter into an enduring love story that spanned 61 years. Their shared life was lovingly planted in Bath, Ohio, where they established their family foundation.

A long-time employee of Goodyear, he retired as a Robotics Engineer at 58, privileging family time over career, and valuing the moments spent with his loved ones above all else. Intensely loyal and honest, a ‘salt of the earth’ man, Michael’s honorable nature and deep faith were his guiding principles.

His profound appreciation for nature, intertwined with his passion for fishing and hunting, led him to some of his most joyful moments reveling in Alaska’s immense splendor and frequenting his cherished Michigan hunting cabin. These havens were his sanctuaries, and in them, he found a deep sense of peace and connection with God and the natural world.

Over a decade ago, Michael and his cherished wife relocated permanently to the land they adored for years, settling in the tranquil landscapes of their family estate in Tennessee. Among the rolling hills and serene beauty of Tennessee, they crafted a life brimming with affection, joy, and the simple pleasures of nature, shared with great friends.

He is survived by his dedicated wife Barbara, son Tony and wife Laura, daughter Stacey, grandchildren Samantha, Victoria, Kaylie, Kendall, and Blake, and his sister Ruthan. In a realm of peace, he joins his mother Dorothy, who preceded him in death.

Join us in commemorating the life of a man whose legacy of faith, family, and respect for the

earth remains a benchmark for us all. 

Michael’s memory will be carried in the hearts of his family and friends, who take solace knowing he has embarked on his divine encounter. In enduring love and respect, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul immensely loved.

Memorial Service:

Sale Creek Independent Presbyterian Church

Highway 27

Sale Creek, TN 37373

March 8th at 11:00 a.m.

Michael’s memory will be carried in the hearts of his family and friends, who take solace knowing he has embarked on his divine encounter. In enduring love and respect, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul immensely loved.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage donations to Michael’s cherished Sale Creek Independent Presbyterian Church, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, or the Hospice of Chattanooga.