Michael Richard Taber

Michael Richard Taber, 68, of Smithsburg, MD passed away, Tuesday January 28, 2025 at Meritus Medical Center, surrounded by his loved ones.

Mike was born July 29, 1956 in Waynesboro Hospital. He was the son of late Harold and Lucile (Henry) Taber.

Mike was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Smithsburg, MD. He was so proud of his church community and was brought so much joy and love by all of his fellow church members. He loved attending Church every Sunday. He most looked forward to the “movie nights”, “Easter Egg Hunts” and other social gatherings the church would host.

Mike is survived by Robin Taber, mother of their two girls and his life-long best friend. Mike leaves behind his oldest daughter, Amber McQueen and husband Steve and his two oldest grandchildren; Marcella Rose and Emma Marie. Mike also leaves behind his youngest daughter Alana Earp and husband Adam and his youngest two grandchildren; Easton Michael and Emmory Quinn.

In addition, he leaves behind his two twin sisters, Karen Crawford and Carol Tesla, his brother-in-law, Mike Tesla and sister-in-law, Marie Jones, his life-long friend and brother-in-law, Tony Toms and wife Kelly Toms. Mike also leaves behind 10 nieces and nephews and a tremendous number of friends which he cherished.

Mike was born and raised in Greensburg/Smithsburg and attended the Smithsburg schools. In High School, Mike enjoyed playing football as a fullback, number 33. During this time, he earned his nickname as Hog or Hoggy. He has many lifelong friends from his high school football days and was offered a scholarship to play collegiate ball, which he ultimately turned down to pursue a trade in Masonry and became a contractor.

Mike enjoyed life and he enjoyed family. He was a well-versed man who knew so much about so many different things. Mike had a deep love of music and a passion for politics, but perhaps his greatest passion was working on old cars and rebuilding Harley Davidson’s; Mike would spend countless hours tinkering in his garage. He had a love for the game of golf and he enjoyed getting up early to go hunting.

He was a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, or as he would refer to himself, a “Cheesehead”. He was an artist with his hands and had a great talent for laying stone and brick. He had a group of friends that he adored and would often meet up with at the drag strip to watch the races.

Mike's latest great project was the construction of a pole barn on his lifelong family property or as he would say “his home place”, where he would enjoy many peaceful days and nights taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

As a family; Mike enjoyed many camping trips, water skiing and ocean trips. He found joy in watching his daughters and nieces compete in gymnastics meets over the years. He also loved to watch his grandchildren play soccer and basketball on the weekends. Mike was a wonderful man and brought so much joy to so many lives with his kind heart, infectious laugh and love for life. He made an impression on everyone he met. He was very proud of his family and never missed an opportunity to brag about his grandchildren.

His friends will share that he inspired them to be a better person. He will be remembered forever and loved always.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents; Harold and Lucile Taber and his brother Brian Taber. He is also preceded in death by some of his aunts and uncles.

A visitation will be held at J. L. Davis Funeral Home in Smithsburg, MD on Thursday February 6, 2025 from 6-8. A memorial service will be held at 1pm on February 7, 2025 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church at 13025 Greensburg Rd. Smithsburg MD. Pastor Julie Brighman will officiate.

In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Arrangements were made with J.L. Davis Funeral home, Smithsburg, MD, and online condolences can be offered at www.jldavisfh.com.