John Michael Mike Hand

Mike passed away on February 19, 2016 at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita at age 62. Mike was a U.S. Navy Petty Officer, First Class and graduated from the Nuclear Power Training Unit, Idaho Falls, ID. He was Submarine Qualified and served aboard the USS Guardfish in the Pacific. He was born in Eldorado, Kansas on September 9, 1954 to James J and Helen L. (Haubert) Hand. The family moved to McPherson in 1955 and he graduated from McPherson High School in 1971. He attended Kansas State Teachers College before joining the Navy. After honorably serving his country, Mike studied at the University of Kansas before returning to McPherson and joining the family business. While in McPherson, he served as the Post Commander of American Legion Post 24 and was appointed by Governor Carlin to serve on the Governors Advisory Committee for Veterans Affairs. He was also a member of the McPherson Breakfast Optimist Club. Mike later moved to Wichita to expand the family business. He was a member of the Walnut Valley Sailing Club where he proved himself to be not only a passionate sailor and skilled racer, but also a master party planner. He won many sailing accolades including finishing 1st Place in Grand Lakes Long Distance Sailing Classic and Lake Texomas Lakefest Sailing Regatta. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, James and Helen Hand and step-mother Bernie (Robben) Hand of McPherson. He is survived by his siblings: James and wife Sharon "Shari" of Wichita; Matthew and wife Stacy of Amarillo, TX; and Mary Flinn and husband Henry Gray of Louisburg, KS. The "Favorite Uncle" is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews Cynthia, Jeffrey, Katie, and Ryan Hand. Mike also leaves many close and wonderful friends, cousins, aunts, uncles, and fellow sailors. Family and friends will gather to celebrate Mikes life at a time and location to be determined. As usual, "Look for the Mermaid Flag," listen for Jimmy Buffet, and island-wear will be mandatory. The family suggests memorials to American Legion Post 24, 401 N. Main, McPherson, KS 67460. Downing & Lahey Mortuary East. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com