November 5, 1954 – February 10, 2026

Lynn Michael Waters, Sr., born November 5, 1954, in Corpus Christi, passed peacefully in the early morning hours of February 10, 2026, in hospice care after a courageous journey with Lewy Body dementia. He left this world the way he lived in it: surrounded by love, with his children by his side.

Mike spent most of his life in South Florida before settling for the past decade in Orange Park. Throughout his career as an electrician for Florida Power & Light, he worked at numerous power plants, quite literally helping keep the lights on across the region. He took pride in honest work, steady hands, and a job done right. If something in South Florida was powered up and running smoothly, Mike likely had something to do with it.

Beyond his profession, Mike was a dedicated martial artist who trained for many years in Isshin-ryū karate, earning a high-ranking black belt. He valued discipline, respect, and perseverance. He carried himself with quiet confidence, though those who knew him understood that calm and capable were not mutually exclusive.

He was a die-hard fan of the Miami Hurricanes. Game days were sacred events. Wins were celebrated enthusiastically; losses were dissected thoroughly (and occasionally loudly). His loyalty never wavered, although sometimes his level of enthusiasm did.

Perhaps Mike’s most notable trait was that he truly never met a stranger. A quick trip to the store inevitably turned into a meet-and-greet tour. Lines were opportunities. Waiting rooms were networking events. Gas stations were social gatherings. He introduced himself freely, asked genuine questions, and left people smiling, sometimes awkwardly. His children learned early that “running a quick errand” required patience and likely an extra half hour.

Above all else, Mike loved his family. He is survived by his sister Julie; his children, Christina and Michael Jr.; his daughter-in-law Tori; his nephew Jason; and his three beloved grandchildren, Conner, Catelyn, and Carson, who brought him immeasurable pride and joy. He also leaves behind all his fellow IBEW members, his extended family of Hurricanes fans, countless friends he met along the way, and his cherished community at Orange Park Methodist Church.

Mike will be remembered for his firm handshake, caring heart, steady work ethic, and his remarkable ability to turn strangers into friends. The world feels a little quieter without him, but somewhere we are certain he has already introduced himself to everyone.

A Memorial Service celebrating his life will be held on March 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Orange Park Methodist Church, 2051 Park Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073.

He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. In lieu of flowers, introduce yourself to someone you don’t know or donate to the Dementia Society of America.  https://www.dementiasociety.org/contact

Georgia Cremation in Duluth assisted the family with arrangements.