Michael L. Corwin

Michael L. Corwin, 69, passed away Wednesday, May 24, 2023 with loved ones by his side, after weeks of failing health due to Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

He was born in Bucyrus on April 16, 1954, the oldest of four, to the late Louie and Nancy (Howard) Corwin. After his father’s return from the service, the Corwins moved to Crestline where Louie was a railroad man and Mike and his friends got into all sorts of mischief. While at Crestline High School, Mike met Julie Walterhus. They graduated in 1972 and were married on December 22, 1973. While studying to be an elementary teacher, Mike began substituting as a dispatcher in Crestline before joining their police department. He transferred to Bucyrus where he climbed the ranks and retired as Chief of Police. As his career in law enforcement was drawing to a close, he surrendered to the Lord’s call for him to preach the Gospel. Mike studied for the ministry at Methodist Theological School in Ohio and served as pastor in Leesville, North Robinson, and Crestline before he was called to his last appointment as the first pastor of the newly merged Bucyrus United Methodist Church from which he was to retire next month.

While he certainly had a stubborn streak and ornery side, most will remember Mike for his willingness and eagerness to serve others. He loved the children in his family and his community, and his grandchildren and great grandchildren who were a special blessing. He was never one to sit still as he always remodeled “fixer uppers” including his current home affectionately known as “The Farm.” His relaxation came over morning devotions, coffee, journaling, fishing, and gardening. He also loved to cook and looked forward to family gatherings on Monday evenings. In addition to his work at the church, Mike served as Chaplain for the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office and formerly at the Bucyrus Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Mike is survived by his wife of 49 years, Julie; children, Stacy Ricker and Aaron (Jill) Corwin; grandchildren, Makenzie (Coldon Noble) Ricker, Marcus Ricker, Mason Ricker, Sydnee Corwin, and Connor Corwin; great grandchildren, Korwyn and Koralee; siblings, Andy (Kim) Corwin, Chris (Roberta) Corwin, and Carolyn Laferty; along with nieces, nephews, and extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son-in-law, Joe Ricker.

All services for Mike Corwin will be held at the Bucyrus UMC Worship Center, 227 S. Walnut St. Family will receive friends on Friday, June 2nd from 12-3 and 5-8 pm and his funeral will begin at 1:00 pm on Saturday, June 3rd with Pastor Becky Stephens and Rev. Chip Freed officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made payable to Bucyrus UMC and given at the services or Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Memories and photos can be shared on Pastor Mike’s Tribute Wall.