Michael W. Oyer

Michael W. Oyer, 77, of Elkhart, died unexpectedly at home on Thursday, April 10, 2025.

He was born on June 27, 1947, in Goshen, to the late Dr. Harold and Esther (Hartzler) Oyer. On August 24, 1968, Mike married the former Martha Gowdy at the First Presbyterian Church in Elkhart. She survives, along with their two children: Dr. Matthew W. Oyer (Rebecca Cannell) of Brooklyn, NY, and Elizabeth B. Oyer of Elkhart. Also surviving are five grandchildren—Sawyer Benbow, Kabraun Benbow, Tyler Ball, Clementine Oyer, and Josephine Oyer—as well as one sister, Cindy Oyer (David Reynolds) of Elkhart, and one brother, Dr. Philip Oyer (Anne-Marie) of Woodside, CA.

Mike graduated from Elkhart High School in 1965. He earned his undergraduate degree from Indiana University in Bloomington, attended the University of Chicago for graduate studies, and completed his education at the University of Notre Dame. In 1982, he founded Psychological and Family Consultants, where he continued to practice as a psychotherapist for the rest of his life.

He was an avid reader with a deep curiosity about the world, and a lifelong fan of Indiana University basketball—often found cheering on the Hoosiers with family and friends. He cherished time spent at the family cottage on Lake Charlevoix, where he shared his love of nature, sailing, conversation, and slow mornings with those he held dear. He and his wife, Martha, enjoyed traveling together, especially to visit their son’s family in New York City and his brother’s family in the Bay Area. Springtime brings fond memories of the two returning home with flowers for the garden, and of Mike tending to his roses.

Mike was deeply loved for his understanding, his kindness, and his grace. He will be missed by many.

Services will be held at First Presbyterian Church on Friday, May 2, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. The Reverend Dr. Sally Wicks will officiate. Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Elkhart County Symphony Association, 307 S. Main St., Elkhart, IN 46516.

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