With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Michael (Mike) Mart, the loving son of Jack and Marilyn Mart of Indianapolis, IN, on December 10, 2024. Mike was an adoring husband to Christine (Chris) Phillips Mart; guiding father figure to Tommie Green; loyal brother to Brad Mart (brother-in-law to Sharon Skalicky Mart) and Krista Mart Vanourny (brother-in-law to Stephen Vanourny, Jr.); dedicated son-in-law to Darrell and Judy Haskell; supportive brother-in-law to Carl Phillips (brother-in-law to Michele Phillips) and Ron Phillips; doting uncle to Stephanie Phillips Walker, Danielle Phillips Williams, Andrea Mart, Allison Mart, Jennifer Mart, Jack Vanourny, Emily Vanourny, Brandee Kish, Jessica Kish and Chantel Frank; involved great uncle to Brooklyn Williams, Carter Williams, Aria Walker, Adalyn Walker, Avery Walker; and a caring friend to many.

Mike was born on February 3, 1963, in Bloomington, Indiana. His life was one of curiosity, intellect, love, and generosity—a legacy that will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Mike spent his earliest years in San Diego, California, where he lived with his mom, while his dad served as a Naval Officer during the Vietnam War. His time in San Diego fostered his lifelong curiosity, as he delighted in visits to the San Diego Zoo and showed an early knack for understanding how things work… hints of his future as an electrical engineer. After his dad's return from service, the family moved back to Indiana, where Mike grew up, attending Fall Creek Elementary School, Eastwood Middle School, and North Central High School in Indianapolis.

A talented athlete and student, Mike played catcher in little league baseball, earning the Randy Sell award for mental attitude, and swam competitively on the Devon Country Club swim team. He also excelled in tennis, playing on both the middle school and high school teams, and demonstrated an early aptitude for technology, building his own computer and delving into the emerging world of computer programming.

Mike’s passion for learning led him to attend college at the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, where he graduated early with honors, earning a double major in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. It was during his college years that he met the love of his life, Chris, in his dorm as she was selling chocolate bars for a fundraiser for her high school. Mike soon discovered that the sweetest part of that day was not the candy she was selling, but the kindness in his future wife’s heart. The two married on May 11, 1985, beginning a life of love, partnership, and shared purpose that spanned 39 beautiful years.

After getting married, Mike and Chris moved to Dallas, Texas, where Mike began a remarkable career at Texas Instruments, which later transitioned to Raytheon. As an electrical engineer, he played a critical role on military projects for the government, including serving as the Lead Software Engineer for the F18 F.L.I.R. Night Vision System. His work there was a testament to his brilliance, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

After his extensive career in defense, Mike left to help manage the office of his wife’s court reporting business. Together, they grew the business into a successful enterprise and spent the next 20 years working side by side.

Together, Mike and Chris shared not only their love and work life, but also compassion for others… opening their home and hearts to care for and raise Tommie Green. Mike’s unwavering support extended to Tommie’s siblings, whom he welcomed into their home during times of need, offering them a safe and loving environment. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds.

Mike also had an adventurous spirit. He enjoyed hang gliding off the coast of California, loved scuba diving in the Caribbean and was fond of any opportunity to go sailing.

As a man of faith, Mike donated his free time to teaching classes at Grace United Methodist Church to help members understand their finances better. Mike was also a proud patriot and loved his country, actively supporting campaigns at the state and national levels.

In his later years, Mike faced health challenges with courage and grace, supported every step of the way by Chris, whose love and devotion never wavered. Their partnership exemplified the true meaning of unconditional love.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, February 1, at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis, IN, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) at https://www.breakthrought1d.o… in support of Juvenile Diabetes research, which Mike was personally affected by for almost 50 years.

Mike’s life was one of love, intellect, adventure, and unwavering generosity. His memory will forever be cherished by those who were blessed to know him, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.

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