Michael Edwin Ferguson, 75, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025. Born on March 8, 1950, Michael lived a life marked by love, laughter, and devotion to his family, friends, and passions.
He graduated from Lima Senior High School in Lima, Ohio, and later earned his degree from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. Over the years, he built a distinguished career in sales, finance, and tax-exempt leasing, working with Memorex Corporation, Koch Industries, and eventually founding his own business, Systems Finance Corporation.
A man of many passions, Michael found joy in sailing—spending countless weekends on the Chesapeake Bay aboard his sailboat, the Amun Ra, with his family, his beloved Scottish terriers, and friends. Even after moving to Wichita, Kansas, in 1995, his love of the water endured as he chartered and moved boats for others along the East Coast, from Florida to Annapolis.
Golf was another of Michael’s lifelong joys. Known for “tweaking” his swing, he relished both the game itself and the camaraderie it brought. He was a proud member of Crestview Country Club and later, Terradyne Country Club. He also enjoyed shooting, traveling, woodworking, and sharing a good bourbon.
Those who knew Michael will remember him as fun-loving, quick-witted, and the undeniable king of Dad jokes and puns. Family and friends were the heart of his world, and he was endlessly caring, generous, and genuine. A natural teacher, he loved showing others how to improve their golf game, master woodworking, or tackle repairs. He could fix almost anything. Michael’s love for dogs, especially Scottish terriers, was constant, as was his joy in singing—whether he knew the words, or not. He delighted in thoughtful conversations, from philosophy and religion to history and politics.
Michael’s spirit lives on in the love he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the wisdom he passed down. His memory will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to know him.
Michael is survived by his wife, Susan Lynn (Schmidt) Ferguson; daughter, Stephanie Lynn Ferguson (Donavan) Harkness; son, Andrew Michael Ferguson; granddaughter, Rebecca Lynn Harkness; sister, Melinda Ferguson; and three nieces. He will also be remembered by a wide circle of extended family, dear friends, and colleagues.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
Dear Sue,
We are so sorry about your loss of Mike. Learning about his many talents and accomplishments was very interesting, and we are very impressed. His generous and energetic sharing of his abilities and time with his family and friends created a good life for all of you. May you and your family find comfort, peace, hope, and healing as you remember him with love.
With our sincere and heartfelt sympathy, Jim and Kim Smith (old Pinnacle neighbors)