Michael Duane Best, 68, of Wellington, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at home. Born on September 27, 1955 in Corpus Christi, he spent most of his youth in Jackson, Ohio.

Following graduation, Michael joined the United States Air Force where he was trained as a firefighter. He was stationed on the Marshall Islands, Kwajalein Atoll and remained abroad after being discharged working as a civilian contractor fireman. When Michael moved back to the States he began working for the VA in Chillicothe, retiring after 15 years. In 2015 Michael, a lifelong confirmed bachelor married, the love of his life, Lois, and the two of them recently moved to Wellington. Michael was a member of the Wellington Eagles. He was a gun enthusiast and enjoyed collecting guns as well as going to the shooting range.

Michael is survived by his wife, Lois (nee Johnson); daughters, Jennifer Smith and Brianna Weaver, both of Olmsted Falls; and a brother, David Best. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace Clayton Best and Wanda Marie (nee Mullis) Westbrook.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.