Michael "Mike" L. Rae, 83, of Bentonville, died November 1, 2012. He was born on December 16, 1928 in Ellettsville, Indiana, to Frederick Baugh and Hazel Shrell Baugh. After the death of his mother in 1934, Mike was adopted by Hugh and Jennie Rae and he grew up in Staten Island, New York. He was a Korean War veteran and was proud to have served his country as a Marine. He attended Elon College in North Carolina and graduated from Indiana University. He resided in Indianapolis, Indiana where he was employed by Studio Press, Circle Engraving, and Ayrway Stores. He moved to Akron, Ohio and worked for Clarkins Stores and later owned UV Signs and Designs printing business after returning to Indianapolis. He began employment at The Wholesale Club, where he enjoyed traveling to assist in the opening of new Club locations. Upon the merger of The Wholesale Club with Walmart Stores, he moved to Bentonville and worked for Sam's Club and Walmart Printing and Mailing Distribution Center. While in Indianapolis, Mike was a founding and long-time member of Church of the Master, American Baptist Convention in Indianapolis. At the time of his death, he was a member of Bella Vista Community Church. He found joy as a volunteer working with children with developmental disabilities and as a camp counselor for several years in Indiana. After his move to Arkansas, he became involved with Habitat for Humanity and helped to build seven homes in Centerton and Bentonville. His most cherished friendships developed through this organization of outstanding individuals. In 1981 he married his soul mate, Carol J Yoerns, and they would have celebrated their 31st anniversary this month. He was very devoted to his family, especially his children. After 46 years of separation from his biological siblings, Mike was blessed to be reunited with them through the determination and perseverance of his sister, Shirley, which had a profound and lasting effect on his life. Mike was an avid Indiana University basketball fan, enjoyed working in his yard, was a train enthusiast, and took pleasure in building airplane models. He loved the military and amassed a collection of armed-services gear. He was also a jack of all trades with a passion to fix "things."
He was preceded in death by his biological and adoptive parents; brothers, Charles Frederick, Julian, Dennis, Henry Eugene (Jene), Jim, and Douglas Rae, and sister, Marie Wood.
Survivors include his wife, Carol, son, Steven Rae (Donna), daughter, Katherine Rae (Rick Coffman), sister, Shirley Loftin, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be at 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 5, 2012, at Bella Vista Community Church with a memorial service beginning at 11:00 a.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
November 24, 2012
Daniel Yoerns
All our love and sympathy to all of you there in ark.
Bro
November 4, 2012
Debbie, Chad, Josh and Jordan Browning
We will miss Uncle Mike and will hold our memories of him in our hearts. We love you Aunt Carol!
November 4, 2012
Donna Rae
The world has lost a kind, generous and loving man. My thoughts are with you,Carol. I know Steve and Kathe will honor his legacy by being the decent people Mike taught them to be.
November 3, 2012
Todd and Jamie Lowery
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mike will be missed.
November 3, 2012
Denise Marcell
Carol and Family,
Uncle Mike will be missed. Years and miles kept us separated but the blood lines and fondness remain. May your grief be short and your memories grow deep with each new day. Stay open and watch for the signs from Uncle Mike.
Love,
Ken and Denise Marcell Bayville NJ
November 3, 2012
Emily Clare
Mike was a wonderful man and will be missed by all. Sending loving thoughts your way...
November 2, 2012
Bill & Patti Martin
With sympathy and loving prayer
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