Michael R. Deem 1980-2025

Born Nov. 26, 1980, in Youngstown, Michael was the beloved son of John and Dee Paolone Deem.

He was a man defined by strength, humility, humor, honor and an unwavering love for his family. He gave his life to the Lord at Camp Chautauqua when he was 14 years old. He loved his Lord and is now with Him for eternity.

Mike proudly served in the United States Army, enlisting in 2001 and rising through the ranks to retire as a major after 20 years of honorable service. His military career included two tours in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, a tour in Ghana and various assignments around the world, which often required separation from his family. This meant missing important milestones like graduations and weddings, which showed his commitment to serving others.

He never hesitated in the face of duty and led with compassion, often becoming a father figure and mentor to those he served alongside. A natural leader, he was deeply admired by his peers for his integrity, courage and dedication, which was evidenced by the outpouring of love and support when others heard of his cancer diagnosis.

Mike graduated from Struthers High School in 1999, pursued an engineering degree at Kettering University, and then later followed his true love, Sara Green, to the University of Pittsburgh before enlisting. He completed his degree while in the military at Youngstown State University.

Following retirement, he and his wife Sara remained active, dedicating time and energy to their community and local American Legion Posts 573 and 223. Mike (aka Thanos) served as president of the American Legion Riders at Post 573, where he helped raise tens of thousands of dollars over several years for various children’s charities.

Despite retiring, Mike could never sit still, so he funneled his restlessness into helping older youth by working as a substitute teacher at KISD, especially Early College High School, where administration encouraged him to consider becoming permanent staff.

Mike found joy in the simple things: long motorcycle rides with Sara, his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, and spending time with their children. He was often found on the phone with family, sharing laughter, support and wisdom. He had a special way of making people feel heard, seen and loved. With a generous heart and a quick wit, Mike met the needs of those around him without question. Whether it was a friend, a neighbor or a family member, he offered help freely and with humility.

His legacy of service extended far beyond the military. He lived every day with purpose and compassion.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Sara Green Deem, and their four wonderful children, Alexandria (22), Abbigale (21), Isabella (15) and Gabriel (12), each of whom carries his legacy of kindness, humor and quiet strength. He also is survived by his parents, John and Dee Deem; his siblings, Jennifer (Jeff) Jones, Brian (Dani) Deem and Nick (Brianna) Deem; and by Sara’s parents, John and Cindy Green; and her siblings, Daniel (Kylee) Daugherty, Christopher (Jayme) Green and Laura (Adam) Anthony.

To his 10 nieces and nephews and one great-nephew, Mike was a source of wisdom, fun and unconditional love. To his cousins, he was a lifelong confidant and friend.

Mike’s life was a gift to all who knew him. His presence, laughter and love will be deeply missed every day.

A funeral with military honors will be held at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas, followed by a celebration of life. Arrangements will be made by ABC Cremation.

Locally, a celebration of life for family and friends will take place 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 29, 2025, at Elmtree Catering in Struthers. This date and location hold special significance, marking the 24th anniversary of Mike and Sara’s wedding reception, a tribute to the time and place their life together began.

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