Michael Wayne Latimer, age 68, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2019 in his home.  Mike was born January 13, 1951 in Springfield, MO to Lloyd and Virginia Latimer.  He grew up in Springfield and married his high school sweetheart; Lea Anne Walker, and they would have celebrated 49 years of marriage this September.  He served in the Army Reserves from 1970-1977.  He was employed by Consumers Markets for 30 years, and almost 20 years for the Logan Rogersville school district.  He was a hard worker and always steadfast in providing for his family.  For the past 23 years, he was fondly referred to as Papa.

Mike was a lifelong contrarian, a committed skeptic, a great armchair philosopher and avid reader.  He especially enjoyed offering his sons advice containing his philosophic "Papa-ism's".  He always had time to send his daughter and granddaughter roses on Valentine's Day.  He was a friend to stray kittens and dogs that needed a home.  He loved music, especially the Grateful Dead and classic rock.  He knew his way around the kitchen, and no one could duplicate his meatloaf, spaghetti sauce, or homemade cinnamon rolls.

He is survived by his wife Lea Anne Latimer; three children Brian Clay Latimer, Gretchen Renee Latimer, and Travis Jacob Latimer; four grandchildren Cole Free Duryea, Mikaela Latimer, Clay Latimer, and Mason Latimer; and his sister Linda Sheridan.  Michael was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will be receiving friends and family from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pat Jones YMCA Scholarship Fund, Ozarks Regional YMCA, Attn: Pat Jones, 417 S. Jefferson, Springfield, MO 65806.