Charles “Mike” Michael Bobbitt
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Charles “Mike” Michael Bobbitt, passed away February 5th, 2024. A visitation will be held 3:00 – 4:00 PM, Monday, February 12th, 2024 at The Gathering at Noland Road, Independence, MO. Funeral services will follow at 4:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Second Mile Ministries http://www.secondmileministries.com
Mike was born November 19, 1943, son of Charles and Margaret Bobbitt. He was a resident of Kansas City, Missouri where he graduated from Northeast High School in 1961. Mike met his wife, Linda Ruth Kellner, in 1963 and they were married, May 1st, 1965. They had four children: Michelle Linn, born in 1966; Sean Michael, born in 1968; Katherine Louise, born in 1975 and Sarah Nicol, born in 1978. Mike was employed at Mission State Bank in 1964, where he advanced to Vice President in Data Processing, until 1975.
Mike was called by God to his ministry in 1975, attended Christ Unlimited Bible Institute and worked at Youth for Christ until 1987. He founded Second Mile Ministries in 1987 and was executive director for the remainder of his life.
In a world where self-sacrifice often takes a backseat, there are remarkable individuals like Mike Bobbitt who dedicated their lives to helping others.
The Milestone Youth Center, situated on 12th Street in one of the more challenging neighborhoods of Northeast Kansas City, stood a testament to Mike’s unwavering determination to make a positive impact.
Beyond its doors lay a safe space where individuals could delve into the teachings of the Bible. Mike went above and beyond, generously providing transportation, and snacks, and organizing field trips, including Summer camps, often funding these initiatives from his pocket and with the help of other generous donors.
Mike’s resilience and compassion shone through even in the face of adversity. During a bible study session, when confronted by a group of men demanding the use of the basketball court, Mike graciously opened the doors. In another instance, witnessing a violent altercation on the way to the center, Mike intervened, risking his safety to protect a women in distress.
Undoubtedly, Mike’s impact extended far beyond these incidents. His dedication to rescuing wayward youths, extracting them from challenging situations, and instilling hope in God undoubtedly touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands. The Milestone became a beacon of hope in a community grappling with crime and adversity.
Today, we celebrate a life lived in service to others. Mike Bobbitt’s legacy is one of selflessness, kindness and being a beacon of light in the darkest corners of the city. Mike may no longer be with us, but his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched, and we find solace in knowing that he is now in the company of kindred souls in Heaven.
Visits: 536
Linda and family,I am so sorry for your great loss . I know that he’s dancing on the streets of gold and seeing all his loved ones in heaven he will be celebrating Valentine’s Day with the ones that’s gone before him what a wonderful celebration it will be. I will not be able to attend I have moved to Texas and little far for me to travel, but I know it will be a wonderful celebration of life for Mike about it sincerely Nancy Deterding
Linda and Family
We are praying for you. And God to send his comforter to be with u at these difficult times
So sorry Linda..pray you are surrounded by family friends and love
Julia and I are so very sorry you guys lost Mike. Praying the Lord Jesus Christ brings you His great comfort and assurance of His presence with you. We love you and are thankful for Mike’s and you all’s service to our Lord.
Linda, Mike was an inspiration to all who knew him. I was very grateful to be able to call him a friend. Heartfelt sympathy to you and the entire family as you will all miss him so much until you get to see him again.
Linda I am so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I will always remember his smile and kindness.
GODS LOVE TO YOU AND THE FAMILY!
Linda I send my prayers to you and the family. Mike was one of those guys that I will cherish as I had the opportunity to serve for a few years at the Milestone. His heart for the urban kid including the ones who struggled with staying on the right path is something that I will always cherish. To know that he was a man that loved God but also loved the kids of the inner city and wanted to see what was best for them. This news has touched me and I’ll be forever grateful for Michael Bobbitt.
Linda — You do not know me but I’m one of the thousands of people who benefited from Mike’s generosity and selflessness through Milestone. I knew Mike only in passing, but was one of the many parents who benefited from his willingness to share his space with kids and families from anywhere. My son and I had been going to Milestone for over a year when we learned that the kind man who was quietly working in the background was not a janitor or a property manager, but the creator and owner of Milestone. I’ve told many people over the years that he is my truest picture of a servant leader — a man who was always kind, always generous, and constantly working in pursuit of serving others. He leaves a beautiful legacy that will not be forgotten and I know my son and I will do our part to help continue it.