Michael E. Sink, Sr., 73, of Burlington, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024 at his home.
Born Dec. 7, 1950, in Burlington, he was the son of Donald E. and Wanda Lee Dile Sink.
Michael graduated from Burlington High School and Trade School. He married Wilma Sickle Porter Sept. 26, 1992, in Burlington and from this blended family, raised six children.
Michael began working at age 18 for the CB&Q Railroad, Burlington Northern which became Burlington Northern Santa Fe. He worked there as a boilermaker for 43 years.
He was quite the historian, citing dates and history of wars and other events in the past. Michael liked building for home improvement and was very knowledgeable and particular about his work. He like going to the Big Hollow shooting range with his friend and co-worker from the railroad, Jerry McCormick.
After a motorcycle accident Michael was not able to return to his craft as a boilermaker, but kept busy with exploring many ways to keep busy. He enjoyed cooking, baking and finding new recipes to try. He always encouraged friends and family to try his new recipes, insisting they try a bite, even if not hungry or on a diet.
Survivors include his wife Wilma of Burlington; children Michael E. Sink, Jr of Bald Knob, Ark., Jason (Stacey) Sink of Ft. Madison, Sarah (Danny) Casey of Blytheville, Ark., Michelle (John) Kibling of Burlington, Deidra Porter Bowman of Burlington, and John Wesely Porter of Texas; 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; one sister Judy (Kenny) Davis of Port Orange, Fla., and one brother Dennis (Debra) Sink of Burlington.
He was preceded in death by both parents.
Per his wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel. Inurnment will be at a later date in Aspen Grove Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.