Michael W. Fletcher, age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022 at the home he built in Lake Clear, surrounded by his family.

Michael was born on Aug. 13, 1934 in Carthage, the son of Phillip and Lucia (Bernier) Fletcher. He loved the wilderness of the North Country and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved paddling the lakes and streams in his canoe as well as hiking and camping.

His enjoyment of horseback riding was second to none, riding every chance he got and even competing in a Gymkhana against his daughters and grandchildren well into his mid-to-late 80s. Mike was at his happiest surrounded by family and close friends, supporting them in all their endeavors, traveling far and wide to be at their sporting events as well as practicing with them at home as recent as this summer. He celebrated his 88th birthday at a horseshow in Vermont, supporting his granddaughter.

Michael never missed a bonfire or gathering, taking every opportunity to tell hunting and fishing stories as well as discuss family ancestry/history. Mike never left a gathering without singing some of his favorite old songs and making us all join in. Mike was truly the life of the party, loved deeply and was deeply loved.

Mike retired from the NY Telephone Company (Ma-bell) in 1980 as a regional foreman; however, he never stopped working, being self employed for years to come. Over the years, Mike built five houses with the help of his children and friends, living in all of them, his most recent where he passed, looking out his windows on the most magnificent panoramic view of the Adirondack High Peaks.

Mike is survived by his sister JoAnn Fletcher-Miles and his children Scott (Darlene) Fletcher of Spring Water, New York, Andrew (Tess) Fletcher of Vallejo, California and Amy Fletcher, Amber Fletcher, Paul Fletcher and Michelle Fletcher-Snyder all of Lake Clear. Mike is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the professional staff at UVM Burlington, VT for their help and support, and a very special thank you to the staff at the High Peaks Hospice — we truly could not have given him this awesome gift of being home at the end if not for them.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church St., Saranac Lake, New York. Mike chose not to have any services and elected to be cremated. The family will host a celebration of life and memorial dedication bonfire on his property next summer. Dates and notices will be sent out and all are welcome to attend.

Family and friends wishing to remember Michael W. Fletcher can send memorial donations to the High Peaks Hospice in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share a memory, send a condolence and sign the online guestbook at www.fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.