Henry Michael “Mike” Wolenhaupt, 75, of Centralia, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at Odin Healthcare Center.
He was born on August 10, 1949, to Henry and Bernice Wolenhaupt. He was the oldest of three brothers, Marc and Brad.
His calling as a highly talented craftsman began at a very early age. Throughout his career, he wore many different hats, most notably as a carpenter. builder and auto body expert. He proudly served as an Air Force crew chief sergeant at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas. There he met Christina Garcia, they wed and had three children: Henry, John, and Nicholaus. During this time, he also converted to Catholicism and was a very active member of the Knights of Columbus. He also volunteered or taught in many other church organizations. He later returned to Centralia, Illinois, and married Kimberly Webb. He continued in his craft until his health dictated otherwise. In his final years, as his health faded, he resigned to offer his sufferings to the one who suffered for him.
He passed peacefully, leaving behind his mother, Bernice, and brother, Marc. His first and second wives, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many other family members and friends. Left is a legacy of high talent, humor, patriotism, and dedication to those he loved.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. Mary Catholic Church in Centralia with Father Steven Pautler officiating. A Rosary service will be held at 10:00 am at the Church. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at the Church on Saturday. Interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. Military Honors will be accorded at the gravesite by the Centralia American Legion Post 446 and Centralia V.F.W. Post 2055. In memory of Mike, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to the Wolenhaupt family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
