Mike "Buggsy" Hendershot's Obituary
Mike “Buggsy” Hendershot passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 14, 2026.
Born in 1951 in New Albany, Indiana, Mike was the son of John and Shirley Hendershot. He was baptized in the Catholic Church and grew up alongside his five siblings: Tim, Odie, Paul, Denise, and Danny.
Mike attended St. Anthony’s Catholic Grammar School through seventh grade before transferring to Santa Clara Grammar School for eighth grade. He went on to attend Santa Clara High School for two years before transferring to Oxnard High School, where he graduated in 1969.
In 1972, Mike enlisted in the United States Armed Services, serving as a Private First Class and stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. During his service, he earned a Marksmanship Badge, a Sharpshooter Badge, and the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1977.
In 1978, he met his first wife, Jan Stull, and together they had one son, Nick Hendershot, whom Mike loved deeply.
Mike worked as a cylinder filler of compressed and liquefied gases for almost 30 years; he retired from Airgas in 2007.
In 1997, Mike reconnected with Barbara McCarthy, his high school sweetheart, after nearly 30 years apart. They married in 1998 and spent 16 years together, primarily in Salt Lake City, Utah. They also spent several years in Ventura, California, enjoying the beach before returning to Utah to live again after the birth of their first grandchild.
Mike was known for his gentle, sweet nature, his sense of humor, and his kindness. He was loved by everyone who knew him. In his later years, he cherished his time with his grandsons most of all—they were the joy of his life, he loved watching them grow into incredible young men.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his younger sister, Denise James; and his best friend, Mark Kenney.
He is survived by his four siblings; his son, Nick; his stepdaughters, Katie Daurelle and Stephany McCarthy; his grandchildren, Hunter, Sheridan, Ryder, and Abigail; and his best friends, Ace and Marietta Powell.
Per his wishes, no services will be held. His ashes will be spread in the Pacific Ocean, as he requested. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice.
Mike, affectionately known as “Buggsy” by those who knew him best, will always be remembered and held in the hearts of those who loved him.
What’s your fondest memory of Mike?
What’s a lesson you learned from Mike?
Share a story where Mike's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Mike you’ll never forget.
How did Mike make you smile?