Michael James Felter

Michael James Felter, 83, of Tiffin, OH, died at 5:37 a.m. Thursday, February 5, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his wife and children. Mike was born June 21, 1942, in Meadville, PA, to Wilbur Jacob and Margie Victoria (Dornbirer) Felter. He grew up on his family’s farm, which produced tomatoes for Heinz Ketchup—an upbringing that shaped his work ethic, resilience, and lifelong appreciation for hard work. He married his high‑school sweetheart, Sharon Ann Zalar, on January 30, 1965, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, and she survives.

Mike was deeply grateful to Sharon, who lovingly provided his medical care over the last three years, allowing him to remain at home. Her devotion gave him comfort, dignity, and peace in his final years.

He is also survived by two sons, Andrew (Leslie) Felter and Timothy (Michelle) Felter, both of Tiffin; a daughter, Sara Felter‑Moskowitz of Cincinnati; nine grandchildren, Cameron Felter, Hahna Shook, Sidney Felter, Ava Shook, Haley (Drake) Schlessman, Nicholas Felter, Hannah Moskowitz, Jack Moskowitz, and David Moskowitz; a sister, Susan (Brad) Tanner of Tiffin; a sister‑in‑law, Gabi Felter of Rochester, NY; and a brother‑in‑law, Karl (Julie) Zalar, Jr. of Tipp City, OH.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Gregory Felter and his identical twin brother, Lawrence Felter.

Mike began his career as a 3rd and 4th grade teacher at St. Joseph Catholic School. In the summers, he worked for an asphalt paving company. In 1968, he started his own company, F & H Blacktop Sealing, Inc., eventually purchasing Jennite J‑16 with multiple locations in Tiffin and Lima, OH. After selling his business in 1990, Mike devoted the remainder of his life to studying finance and the stock market. He loved sharing what he learned and took great pride in guiding his children and grandchildren, helping each of them begin their own financial journeys with accounts he encouraged them to open.

He was a 1960 graduate of Calvert High School and attended John Carroll University and Bowling Green State University. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Elks Lodge #94, Knights of Columbus, Mohawk Country Club, and the Port Clinton Yacht Club. He served on the boards of S.C.A.T., St. Joseph Cemetery, and the St. Joseph Credit Union. Most notably, he was a founding member and four‑time champion of the Beechwood Hill Golf Open and a lifelong Cleveland Browns season ticket holder and fan.

Mike loved sports of all kinds, in particular golf, car racing, and football. He was an avid golfer, captain of his own boat, and a fisherman. Among his closest friends, he was affectionately known as “Evel” because of his resemblance to Evel Knievel. He also loved to read—especially history—and he never stopped learning. Curiosity was one of his defining traits.

One of Mike’s greatest joys—and the accomplishment he spoke of most proudly—was the academic success of his grandchildren. All nine earned bachelor’s degrees, with one completing a master’s degree and another graduating from medical school. Their achievements filled him with immense pride, but even more, he cherished the close, loving relationships he shared with each of them. Above all else, Mike was a grateful man who adored his wife, children, and grandchildren with his whole heart.

Visitation for family and friends will be 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Monday, February 9, 2026, at TRAUNERO FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 214 S. Monroe St., Tiffin, Ohio 44883 (419) 447‑3113. The funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. The rosary will be recited 30 minutes prior to the Mass. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Church, Calvert Catholic Schools, or N.C.A.T.

To send online condolences, for directions, or to view the Celebration of Life video, go to www.traunerofuenralhome.com.