Michael "Mike" Pejakovich

Michael Pejakovich II, age 62, of Franklin, North Carolina and formerly of Battle Creek passed away on February 4, 2014, at the Charles George VA Hospital, Valor Hospice, in Asheville, North Carolina. He was born April 1, 1951, in Flint, Michigan, to Michael and Marion Pejakovich, but considered Battle Creek his home town.

Michael served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Rifle Marksman Badge and a Purple Heart.

Michael attended Battle Creek Central High School, Kellogg Community College and received a Bachelor's Degree from Nazareth College. He enjoyed golfing, fly fishing and spending time with his family.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mildred "Millie" I. (Decker) Pejakovich of Franklin, North Carolina; a son, Matthew Ryan (Carla) Pejakovich of Battle Creek; a daughter, Kristen Allison Pejakovich of Naples, Florida; and a son, Joseph Michael Pejakovich of Burlington, Michigan. He is also survived by his grandson, Ryan Matthew Pejakovich of Battle Creek; a sister, Martha (Thomas) Pejakovich Baker of Grand Rapids; niece, Sarah Baker and nephew, Ryan Baker. He was preceded in death by both of his parents.

The family will receive friends 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home where a memorial service to celebrate Michael's life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday Interment with full military honors will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael Pejakovich II Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1121, Franklin, NC 28744. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.