Michael Kerry Force

Michael Kerry Force, age 68, of Niceville, Florida passed away Tuesday morning, June 17, 2025, at his residence. He was born March 5, 1957 in Rockville Centre, New York, son of the late George and Maria Force. 

Michael was also preceded in death by his brother, Phillip George Force and his mother-in-law, Geraldine Engles.

Michael is survived and will be dearly missed by his loving wife of 47 years, Christine Force; Sons, David Force (Yumi) of Valparaiso, Florida and Christopher Force (Jill) of Niceville, Florida; grandchildren, Dexter, Ken, and Charlee Force; His siblings, Valorie Harper-Force of Alvin, Texas and Daniel Force of Centereach, Long Island, New York; Father-in-law, William Engels of East Setauket, Long Island, New York; Brother and sister-in-law, Daniel and Kelly Larkin of East Setauket, Long Island, New York; Nieces and Nephews, Greg, Kit, Amy, Billy, Bethaney, and Krista; Along with many more friends and family members whose lives he touched.

Michael was raised in Centereach, New York. His father, George, was an OTR truck driver.  Some of Mike’s fondest childhood memories were of the summers that he got to tag along on the road with his dad. This is where Mike developed his lifelong love of country music, which almost cost him his shot with his high school sweetheart, Christine Engels. Apparently, country music was not cool with high school kids in New York at the time. Luckily, he was eventually able to turn her into a fan as well. He graduated from Centereach High School in Centereach, NY which is where he met the love of his life, Christine Engels.  After graduation, Mike eagerly joined the US Air Force. At basic training, he realized that he did not want to go on that journey without Christine. On August 6, 1977, Christine Engels became Christine Force. Their military life began at Pope Air Force Base in Fayetteville, North Carolina, followed shortly by a move to Eglin Air Force Base near Niceville, Florida. This is where they welcomed their sons and built a life filled with love, laughter, and beautiful friendships. Michael retired from the US Air Force after 22 years of service. He was a member of AMVETS Post #75 in Valparaiso, Florida. Many there jokingly referred to him as the mayor of the post. The time he spent watching Nascar, gameshows, and drinking beer with friends, many of which he considered family, was a highlight of his retirement years.

Michael was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege to know him. His journey on earth was marked by a love of God, family, friends, and country. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him.

Those who knew Mike will remember him for his infectious smile and heart-warming laughter, and his unwavering commitment to family, friends, and country.  He had a gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.

Although Mike’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing and may we carry forth his legacy of love and laughter in all that we do.

There are no words to express how grateful and blessed we are to our dear friends John and Linda Lear, Debbie and Dewey Norman, and all our other friends and family who helped make the last three months a peaceful journey for Michael.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Wounded Warrior Project or a military charity of your choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Kerry Force, please visit our floral store.