Michael was born April 22, 1949 to Everett and Thelma (Ramming) Hedberg in Independence MO.
He attended school there graduating from Raytown South High School in 1967. During his childhood he spent many summers on his Grandparents farm in the country. As a farm boy, he had many fond memories of the time he spent there riding horses and being with his many cousins.
After graduating Michael and many of his High School buddies enlisted in the Army and served time in the Vietnam War. Being a Veteran, he later made many close friends through the V.A.
After returning home from the war, Michael roamed the country searching for something to make him whole. In that time Michael's life was full of adventure and chaos. He became addicted to drugs and alcohol. Michael ended up in Casper, WY in search of big money working on the oil rigs. He became employed by Fox Anderson, a female owned construction company.
In March of 1985 Michael joined the fellowship of Narcotics and Alcoholics Anonymous. Where he remained active with all aspects of the program, from seeing his sponsor once a week, to various service positions until the time of his death. He had over 24 years of sobriety at his passing.
In 1986 Michael met Cindi Jenkins the future mother of his daughter. Cindi brought two daughters, Michelle and Kimberly, into his their relationship. Michael immediately took those little girls under his wing. On January 23, 1988 Michael's greatest pride and joy arrived, Hailey Nicole Hedberg. He loved Hailey more than life itself.
Shortly after Hailey's birth Michael felt the need to give back and became involved with the Big Brothers Program. Meeting a little boy named Trevor MacGavin. Trevor became the son that Michael always wanted. Michael was extremely proud of Trevor and all his accomplishments. They remained extremely close to this day.
In March 1995 Michael met Lynnanne Brenner, whom would steal his heart. Michael and Lynn traveled the world together. After 5 years of dating they joined their spirits in marriage on May 20, 2000. They had just returned from China 5 days prior to Michael's passing. He told many of his friends and loved ones that it was the greatest trip of their lives. Michael and Lynnie were polar opposites but because of their shared belief in God and their commitment to each other they were able to let their marriage grow and flourish.
On September 7, 2005 Michael's second greatest pride and joy came into the world, Kieyana his first grandchild. She was the apple of her grandpa's eye and they spent lots of time together, even going shopping. He loved her with all his heart.
On April 21, 2006 little Nathan MacGavin came into the world. Michael became a grandfather for the second time. Because of distance Michael didn't get to see little Nathan as much as he would of liked. Nathan was always close to his heart.
Michael was in the construction trades all his life, becoming a well respected contractor in Casper. He specialized in Radon Abatement and was proud of his company. He happily retired in 2007.
Michael loved life and enjoyed it too the fullest. God was his first priority followed by his sobriety, family, and the fellowship on NA and AA. He had many passions, discovering a new one in 2007, scuba diving. He became a certified diver, logging over 150 dives in a short period.
Michael will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was strength and inspiration to so many. Michael died doing one of the things he loved and his spirit will remain with all who loved him.
Michael was preceded in death by his parent, friends and many aunts and uncles.
Michael was survived by his wife Lynnanne, his daughter Hailey and son-in law Kendall , all of Casper; his son Trevor and wife Sonia of Virginia; stepdaughters Michelle (Matt) and Kimberly Jenkins of Casper; his brother Dennis and sister- in law Vicki and sister Shiela, all of Lee Summit MO; granddaughter Kieyana of Casper, grandson Nathan of Virginia, step-grandson Devyn of Casper; Cindi Jenkins the mother of his daughter of Casper; his best friend Dale (Charie) Walzcak; His mother-law, Judy (Bud) Brenner-Thompson, Brothers-in-law Pat and Justin (Shawna) Brenner, his beloved "doggers" Miss Kitty and Dogwood, and many friends and cousins to numerous to mention.
Memorial services will be held Saturday August 29, 2009 at 1:00 PM in the Hall of Champions at the Central Wyoming Fair Grounds, 1700 Fairgrounds Rd, Casper WY. Newcomer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Contributions may be made to Big Brothers or to a charity of choice.