Michael ‘Mike’ Huff, 64

Michael “Mike” Richard Huff, 64, of Protem, died peacefully on Feb. 16, 2021, at Cox South Medical Center in Springfield with his family at his bedside. A private graveside service will be held at the family cemetery, and a tailgate celebration of his life will be held sometime in the future. 

He was born Jan. 23, 1957, in Kansas City, the son of Francis “Fran” and Joan Riley Huff. 

On March 10, 1979, he married Karen Putnam in the College of the Ozarks Chapel at Point Lookout. 

Mr. Huff was a tool and die maker at Solar Tool and Die in Kansas City; later he founded Solar Phoenix in Protem. He loved living in the country on the farm where he raised cattle and a few chickens. He could be found nearly every morning, even the cold ones, on his front porch drinking coffee and enjoying the outdoors.   

He was a loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan through good years and bad. He enjoyed being a season ticket holder, going to the games and tailgating, but above all he enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends making memories, even when the weather wasn’t very nice. He loved spoiling his grandkids, being outside, watching the stars, tending to the family farm, working on old muscle cars and traveling with Karen to all 50 states. They saw many amazing sites, met wonderful people and enjoyed delicious food along the way. 

He was a beloved husband, father, papa, brother, uncle and friend to many. 

Mr. Huff is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his two children and their spouses: Elizabeth Weeks and husband Stan, and Steven Huff and wife Jeannie; two siblings: Dave Huff and wife Chris, and Cathy Gibson and husband Reggie; his four grandchildren, whom he adored: Sara, Kyle, Sadie and Jaylie; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Tom Huff and Ginny Isley.  

Memorial contributions may be made to the fund for his celebration of life party at gofundme.com. Search for “Mike Huff celebration of life tailgate party.” 

Arrangements by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.