Lawrence "Mike" Westendorf

Mike Westendorf, husband, father, and PapaWhoppa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on April 29 at the age of 74.
Born November 11, 1951, in Oelwein, Iowa, to the late Evelyn and Loren Westendorf, Mike was one of twelve siblings and was of his generation: long hair, fast cars, a young outlaw who only slowed down when he met the love of his life, Nancy Chapman. For more than fifty years, from Oelwein, IA to Pontiac, IL to Raleigh, NC they built a family together.
A longtime superintendent with Jedco Construction, Mike loved his garden and the Neuse River, just across the woods from his favorite spot on the porch. He coached his daughters' softball teams, cheered as they built careers and businesses, and treasured time with his grandkids, often taking them fishing or entertaining them with stories too grown for their ears. He nicknamed nearly every person (and creature) he met, loved to laugh, and was endlessly devoted to Nancy and his girls.
Ashley and Lindsey will always remember their father for his humor, loyalty, and the pride he took in their accomplishments, his love of music and curious dance moves, his beloved Wolfpack, and, above all, the care and attention he gave their children.
Mike is survived by his wife Nancy; his daughters, Ashley and Lindsey; Ashley’s partner, Reggie; children, Lois and Janelle; and Lindsey’s partner, Greg, and their children, Weston, Greylin, Emerson, and Corbin. He was a proud and devoted Papa, and his love for his family was evident in everything he did. He is also survived by seven siblings. As Mike once said, the spirit of an old dog named Nutsack, who on quiet nights can still be heard plodding along the banks of the Neuse river, his grand namesake knocking between his knees.
A celebration of Mike's life will be held Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m, at Seven Marks Church, 3500 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh, NC, 27616.