Michael E. Waikem, Jr. age 77, passed away peacefully March 3 ^rd after suffering a stroke on February 25 ^th . Born in Canton to the late Michael E. Sr. and Mary (Danesi) Waikem, he was also preceded in death by granddaughter Kayleigh Waikem and brother Richard Waikem. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years Janice Waikem, children; Michael (Lisa) Waikem III, Michelle DeSantis, Dominick Waikem, grandson Nathaniel DeSantis, granddaughter Jasmine Waikem, three step-grandchildren Timothy, Christopher, and Nicole Volzer, seven step-great-grandchildren sister Cecelia (Lowell) Kramer and brother George Waikem. Mike graduated from Lincoln High School, Class of 1958. He retired from RTI/Republic Steel 8 ^th St. Met Lab after 42 years of service. He bowled for 25 years winning many All Star events including Stark County Masters Title and was voted bowler of the year by the Canton Repository. In 1970 he went on the pro tour – Dallas-Fort Worth-Garden City New York and Las Vegas. He was the proprietor of PRO AM Bowling Specialties. He sponsored many teams and leagues. He was inducted into the Greater Canton Bowling Hall of Fame in 1993. He loved fishing and spent many fun times with family at Rice Lake in Ontario, Canada. Mike had a heart of gold. He tried his best to live a full life after his stroke 15 years ago. He loved people and never met a stranger. Always trying to help out someone in need or give advice. He was quick with a joke, a prank, a story, or a song. If you had tomatoes or corn dropped at your door, it was from Mike. He loved his family, neighbors, firewood, and Christmas tree customers. He had a special love for animals especially his kitties. He worked harder than anyone we knew and he enjoyed it. He will be truly missed by many. There will be no services per his request. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center, 3358 Ridgewood Rd., Akron, OH 44333.