Longtime Exploring advisor and mentor Michael McGuire passes at 59

It’s with Deep Sadness our Feature Extraordinary Explorer is Deputy Michael McGuire.

Michael Ralph McGuire, 59, of Findlay, passed away at the Toledo Hospital on Sunday, June 13, 2021. He was born in Findlay on April 18, 1962, to Charles "Chuck" and Jean (Thomas) McGuire, his father is deceased. He was preceded in death by a son, Chase on June 1, 2014. He is survived by his mom, three children, Matt (LeAnna) McGuire, Brooke (Matthew) Ibarra and Drew (Alexis) McGuire; a sister, Starla (Jeff) Risner; seven grandchildren, Logan, Haylee, Adalynn, Koltyn, Braelynn, Owen, and Noah, a niece, Summer and two nephews, Derek and Jacob.

Mike was a 1981 graduate of Liberty-Benton High School. He started his career in law enforcement with the Hancock County Sheriff's Office as a Reserve Deputy (7/11/1985-4/17/1987), he completed Basic Peace Officer Training May 2, 1986, and was a Deputy Sheriff from November 28, 1988, until his recent retirement on April 30, 2021. Deputy McGuire served in various roles throughout his 36-year career: Litter Officer (part-time 1987-88), Explorer Post Advisor (1990-2021), Color Guard (1997-2021), Crime Prevention Specialist (2011), Ohio Director Crime Prevention Association, BSSA Deputy Director (2009-2013) and School Resource Officer (2001-2013). He also served as a firefighter with the Allen Township Fire Department (1985-current). Mike enjoyed mowing and outdoor activities and spending time with his family.

Mike was instrumental with youth Exploring program sponsored by the Hancock County Sheriff Office.  He spent 31 years leading the Post and has helped transition many youth involved in the program into law enforcement careers where many serve as deputies and officers for the county and city today.  

“We enjoyed many lunches together as we worked together to strengthen the program and help give kids a new learning opportunity within law enforcement,” Black Swamp Area Council Exploring Assistant Scout Executive Colin Earl stated. “He was a great person and a valuable contributor to the community.”  

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 17, 2021, at the Hancock County Fairgrounds Old Millstream Centre. Burial will follow in McComb Union Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the Hancock County Explorer Post #2308. Online condolences can be shared with the family by visiting coldrencrates.com.