Michael David "Mike" Ensign

Michael David "Mike" Ensign, 71, of Defiance, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at St. Anne Mercy Hospital in Toledo.

He was born on March 25, 1954 to Larry and Kathleen (Lesh) Ensign in Defiance, Ohio. He was a 1972 graduate of Defiance High School and earned his bachelor's degree from Defiance College in 1977. On May 27, 1977 he married Barbara Kuhn of Defiance. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Defiance and the Defiance Eagles Lodge #372.

Mike is survived by his loving wife Barbara Ensign of Defiance, children Erica (Dan) McGuire of Holgate, OH, Brandon (Andrea) Ensign of Defiance, Jerad (Ashley) Ensign of Continental, OH, and Amber Ensign of Defiance, nine grandchildren Jacob (Kara) McGuire, Samuel McGuire, Weston McGuire, Mabel McGuire, Alexis Kroeckel, Brady Kroeckel, Braxton Ensign, Peyton Ensign, Paige Ensign and three great-grandchildren Jentree McGuire, Kooper McGuire, and Blake Brown, and his sisters, Cheryl Newman, Cathy Ensign, Cindy (Sam) Williamson, and Carolyn (Denny) Rose, all of Defiance, OH. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Mark Ensign.

Mike had a zest for life, passionate about sports and lived for his family. He played running back and linebacker in football and catcher in baseball at Defiance High school. After graduating, he attended University of Toledo to pursue a degree in teaching. He then transferred to Defiance College to finish his teaching degree and play baseball. He was Co-Captain and MVP his senior year. After graduating college, he worked at 7UP, Bunny Bread, Diehl Inc., and Sauder Woodworking. He also coached all levels in football, basketball, baseball, and softball. After he started his family, he pursued coaching his children and grandchildren's sports teams. He was also co-coordinator for Ayersville Athletic Boosters summer ball for several years. It became his tradition to dress up as Santa for family and friends. This tradition continued for over 45 years. In his later years, he enjoyed watching his grandchildren in sports, fishing, and helping Brandon at Ensign's Pub. He loved being at the Pub.
 
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance with a Rosary Service at 3:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 3rd at St. Mary Catholic Church with Fr. David Cirata officiating. Mike will be laid to rest at Ayersville Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Mary Catholic Church, St. John Catholic Church, or an Athletic Boosters Organization of the donor's choice.
Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com. 

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