Michael James Cenzer

Michael James Cenzer, 58, went home to be with the Lord on Sept. 30, 2017, as the result of a motor accident. He was born on July 24, 1959, in Flushing, NY, to loving parents, Fred and Dorothy Cenzer. 

He grew up in Brentwood, NY and Tamarac, FL, and joined the Air Force, working as a Ground Radio Operator. 

In 1982, Michael married Laura Haigler, and together they raised a loving family of two daughters and a son. He was an avid and skilled deer hunter, and was never happier than when in a tree stand. He also loved working in his plot at the Matthews Community Garden, which he referred to as “Poppi's Garden.” He enjoyed fishing and NASCAR racing, and had many wonderful friends and good times at the racetrack. 

Michael was a tech gadget enthusiast who excelled in his many-faceted career in audio-video, from owning his own business, to achieving his Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), to earning accolades and recognition during his time with Wells Fargo. While at Wells Fargo, he worked as a Video Conferencing Specialist before being promoted to a Business Systems Consultant. He was well-known in the company and had the pleasure of working with so many people he considered his friends. Michael never met a stranger and was quick to lend a helping hand. His genuine personality and sense of humor were two of his most lovable qualities. He was always joking, laughing, and sharing stories with those he loved. He also was a caring husband and devoted father who loved spending time with his children. He delighted in his granddaughters and was their beloved “Poppi.”

Michael was a member of Central Church of God in Charlotte, North Carolina. He had placed his faith and trust in Jesus Christ and we rejoice that we will be reunited with him someday. 

Michael is survived by his wife, Laura Cenzer; children, Holly (Jason) Haines, Bethany (Joseph) Wilson and Ryan Cenzer; grandchildren, Elise and Adeline, his mother, Dorothy Cenzer; brothers, Steven (Carrie) Cenzer and Richard (Malinda) Cenzer; and sister, Ellen Pinkerman. He also is survived by many loving nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his father, Fred Cenzer, his grandfather, Stephen Rice, and his grandmother, Amy Rice.

Visitation will be Saturday, Oct. 7 from noon - 1pm, and the service will be from 1pm – 2pm at

Raymer- Kepner Funeral Home, 16901 Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville, NC 28078 

Memorial donations may be made to Central Church of God in Charlotte, NC or Antioch International Church, Fort Mill, SC.

Psa 51:12

Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.