MICHAEL (“Mike”) ANTHONY ANGEL, 82, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 26, 2025, surrounded by love, after a courageous battle with illness. Born in 1942 at Pine Mountain Settlement School to Susie (Hall) and August David Angel, Mike’s life was a testament to integrity, resilience, and boundless generosity. In 1962, he married the love of his life, Fredrica (“Fredi”) Lynn Andres of Brookfield, Ohio, with whom he built a life filled with adventure, family, and unwavering devotion.
A proud graduate of Sharpsville High School in Pennsylvania, Class of 1960, Mike answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Marine Corps. During his four years of active duty, he was deployed to the Caribbean during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, demonstrating his steadfast commitment to protecting his nation. He continued his service for two additional years in the Marine Corps Reserve, achieving the rank of Sergeant. An avid runner, Mike later took on the challenge of the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C., twice, along with several other marathons, embodying the discipline and determination that defined his character.
Mike and Fredi were blessed with two children, Michael Kelly (Christie) Angel, and Amber Lynnae Linnevers, as well as grandsons Kevin (Jewon) Linnevers and Eric John (Haley) Linnevers. Their family also included their beloved godson, Christopher Angel, and honorary grandson, Kyle Linnevers, all of whom Mike cherished deeply.
Throughout his distinguished career, Mike served in a variety of roles that showcased his courage and unwavering sense of justice. He began as a merchant in Viper, before serving for four years as a Kentucky State Trooper in Floyd County. His law enforcement career reached its pinnacle with 24 years as a Special Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). His tenure took him to Charleston, West Virginia; Cincinnati, Ohio; Cleveland, Ohio; St. Paul, Minnesota; and Atlanta, Georgia. In Cleveland, he was wounded in the line of duty during a drug arrest, suffering a serious injury to his right femur.
Despite the physical challenges that followed, his resilience never wavered—he returned to work and continued his service with distinction until his retirement in 1994. During his time in West Virginia, he also earned a degree in Law Enforcement from West Virginia State College, further exemplifying his lifelong pursuit of excellence.
Retirement did not slow Mike down; instead, he embarked on a new journey as a master craftsman, founding the renowned Red Dog & Company. Inspired by his grandfather’s handmade chairs, Mike built stunning Appalachian-style furniture that became highly sought after. His work found homes among admirers nationwide, including former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, U.S. Representative Hal Rogers, former Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear, and legendary musician Tom T. Hall.
Mike’s incredible life was recognized in numerous publications, including A Boy from Boone by Philip C. McGuire, where he was described as “one of many great special agents” and praised for his character, courage, tenacity, and loyalty. He was also honored in Kentucky: A State of Mind by David and Lalie Dick and Backwoods Chairmakers: In Search of the Appalachian Ladderback Chairmaker by Andrew D. Glenn. KET’s BluegrassandBackroads series also featured his craftsmanship and life story.
Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Fredi; his children and grandchildren; his sister, Ann Angel Eberhardt (Thomas); his brother, Patrick Nicholas Angel (Glenna); a host of beloved nieces and nephews; cousins and countless friends whose lives he touched with his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty.
A graveside service and interment will occur on March 7, at 11 a.m. at Camp Nelson National Cemetery, 6614 Old Danville Loop 2 Road, Nicholasville. Following the service, friends and family are invited to celebrate Mike’s life at 2 p.m., 994 Angel Acres in London.
Special thanks to Bluegrass Care Navigators for their compassion, care, and endless support.
