Harry "Michael" Bromer's Obituary
Bromer, Harry "Michael", age 70, of Waynesville, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2023, at his home.
Mike graduated from Cocoa High School, class of '72. He retired in 2020 after 40-plus years as a general contractor in the Dayton/Cincinnati area. He was a master carpenter, a true craftsman from which integrity and generosity spoke through his work.
Mike was a longtime contributor to St. Jude Children's and had spent the past 20 years sponsoring children overseas through Compassion International. He was known throughout his community for his kind heart and generosity, even if he could be stubborn at times. He had a deep relationship with Christ and spent countless hours studying his bible, often scribbling in notes of reflection throughout the pages. A true disciple and student of Christ, he was passionate about his faith and would spread the Gospel to anyone in need.
Mike was a genuine outdoorsman, and always with a hot coffee in hand, he nourished and fueled his children's love for nature, camping, and gardening. Mike enjoyed spending long afternoons with his son Daniel, fishing from a dock they hand-built together on a family farm. Mike encouraged his son Justin throughout Boy Scouts, often volunteering as a Scout Leader when needed. Throughout the seasons, he would hike along the shores of the Caesar Creek State Park with his children in tow, collecting old bobbers lost by unlucky fishermen. His never-ending battle with squatting raccoons, his only nemesis on earth aside from snakes, continues through his family and friends.
Mike was quite a jester and rarely missed an opportunity to toss in a "bad dad joke" or a quick quip. His humor, albeit cheesy at times, was never lost on a crowd. Late evenings he could be found standing on the porch, shining a cat laser light into his elderly neighbor's window for a quick laugh, despite his daughter's dismay. His mischievousness and humor were some of his best attributes.
He enjoyed collecting memorabilia from the Civil War era, antiques, and anything he thought he could repair. He was a fantastic chef inspired by Julia Child, Jacques Pépin, and his longtime friend Mr. Lee. Mike was, and remains still, the source and inspiration for his daughter's love of cooking. Holidays were always a big family tradition that Mike enjoyed most. His table was always filled with food and laughter and open to anyone who dropped by, even on a weeknight.
Among many things, he will be remembered for the joy he had for his kids and grandchildren, Ivy Mae and Rhett. He shared a unique bond with each, spoiling them and teasing each relentlessly. He is and will forever remain their beloved Pepaw.
Mike shared a particularly special bond with his nephew Mark Bromer. Mike mentored Mark in the construction industry over countless summers, and more often than not, Mark mentored Mike with patience and humor.
He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Lewis and Winnie Bromer, and sister-in-law, Gisela. He is survived by his daughter, Kimberlee Bromer; two sons, Daniel Bromer (fiancée Apryl Dotson) and Justin Shipley (Tricia); two grandchildren, Ivy Mae Bromer and Rhett Henry Bromer; three brothers, Thomas "Tom" A. (Nancy) Bromer, Carl (Pam) Bromer, and William "Bill" Bromer; many nieces and nephews; his longtime best friend, Don Ashby; and two daughters, Heather Bromer and Sarah Cook.
Graveside services will be held at 12:30 PM Friday, January 6, at Miami Cemetery in Corwin. Jimmy Mann Sr. will be officiating. The family will receive friends 12 PM – 12:30 PM Friday at the cemetery. Friends and family are welcomed to the family home after services for refreshments, reminiscent, and laughter. Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville is serving the family. Condolences at www.stubbsconner.com.
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