Mr. Michael G. Ransear, 57, of Herkimer, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday March 13, 2013. Michael was born in Watertown, NY on February 8, 1956 the son of Gene and Betty (Albicker) Ransear and received his education in Cape Vincent, NY. Michael honorably served his country in the US Navy from 1976-1978. On May 3, 1976, Michael married Jolene R. Hanley in Valatie, NY. For 18 years, he was employed as a Corrections Officer with the NY State Department of Corrections, retiring in 2006. A one time, Michael was a member of the Oriskany Falls Volunteer Fire Department, past treasurer of the NYSCOPBA union and was a member of Christian Bible Church in Mohawk. He will be remembered as a true "handyman", able to fix just about anything from houses to automobiles. He enjoyed landscaping and baseball, especially the times spent coaching it. Above all else, Michael's family was foremost in his life. To our beloved and cherished husband, dad and grandfather: Words will never express the utmost sorrow and emptiness we are feeling without you here. You were an example from our heavenly Father of what love should be. We will miss everything about you; your voice, touch, laughter, stories, helpful and wise guidance and steadfast presence. We are left only with the joy of holding on to our Savior, Jesus Christ, until we once again embrace in that promised place where there is no more pain or tears. We love you and will continue to carry you forever in our hearts and minds until we meet again in eternity! Oh happy day! Mr. Ransear is survived by his beloved wife, Jolene; four cherished children, Melissa Ransear of Utica, Maxine and Matt Nasby of Marcy, Mike Ransear of Sauquoit and Lorae and Justin Kastner of Herkimer; 5 adored grandchildren who were the light of his life, Zachary, Abigail, David, Selah and Jacob; a sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Steve Lowe of Chaumont, NY; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Charles and Cindy Ransear of Myrtle Beach, SC and James Ransear of Watertown; mothers-in-law, Loretta Hanley in Ilion, NY and Claire Hanley of Brainerd, NY, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Gene and Betty and a brother, Alan Ransear. Mr. Ransear's funeral will be held on Monday March 18, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at First Assembly of God, 9427 Maynard Dr., Marcy, NY. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. Calling hours for family and friends are Sunday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica. Those wishing to make a donation in Michael's memory, please consider the Christian Bible Church, PO Box 273 Mohawk, NY 13407.