Mike Wanzer

Mike was born on February 19, 1947, to Ollie and Ethel Wanzer in Enid, OK. He graduated from Enid High School in 1965. In 1967, he joined the Marines, earned Corporal rank, and served in the infantry during the Vietnam War. He participated in the battle of Khe Sanh and was later wounded in combat and commended with 2 Purple Hearts.

After his service in the military, Mike started his long and successful career in the world of retail, working his way from floor associate to district manager. He spent his professional career with companies including Woolco, Woolworth, Venture, and finally Sam’s Club.

In the spring of 1977, Mike met Debrah Hardin through a mutual friend. They fell in love and wed in the fall of 1977. Together, they raised 2 wonderful children, Carly and Beau. Mike’s career moved his family to many states including Missouri, Kansas, Louisiana, Ohio, Texas, and finally back to his Oklahoma roots.

Besides his family and friends, Mike loved anything related to cars (especially his 1958 Chevy Impala), OU football, Elvis Presley, and reminiscing about growing up in Enid and playing pranks and jokes on many people. Additionally, he was known for the silly songs he compiled about the misadventures of his family dogs.

Mike was hardworking, always focused and determined to provide for his family to give them the life he felt they deserved. He was also a loyal friend to many and always gave his time and resources to help someone in need.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie and Ethel Wanzer of Enid, OK, and sister, Linda Ogletree of Enid, OK. Mike is survived by his wife of 46 years, Debi Wanzer; daughter, Carly Moguin and son-in-law Dan Moguin, and grandsons Ian, Drew, and Grant Moguin of Edmond, OK; son Beau Wanzer of Chicago, IL; brother, Don Wanzer and sister-in-law Debby of Enid, OK; brother, Chris and sister-in-law Debbie of Enid, OK; sister, Patty Clift of Watonga, OK; and many nieces, nephews, high school friends, and former coworkers whom he cherished.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a memorial donation be sent to Vietnam Vets of America at https://vva.org/donate.

A memorial service honoring Mike will be held on Saturday, October 21st at 10:00 am at First United Methodist Church of Edmond. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, October 22, at 2:00 pm at Memorial Park Cemetery in Enid, OK and will include Marine Corps Honors.