Michael Aaron “Mike” Diehl, 56, of Hinesville, Georgia, formerly of North Platte, passed away May 31, 2017, at his home.

Michael was born on Oct 22, 1960, in North Platte to Melvin Herbie and Doris Laverne (Fletcher) Diehl. He attended and graduated from North Platte High School with the class of 1979 and later went on to receive his Associate of Science degree in horticulture at the College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis.

In July 1987, Mike married Debbie Wagner of North Platte and had a precious daughter, Aimee Marie Diehl, who was the light of his life.

In 1986, Mike enlisted in the U.S. Army. During his 20 years of service, he was stationed at various domestic locations as well as serving tours oversees in Korea, Bosnia, Kuwait and two tours in Iraq. He was a member of the Third Infantry Division. Mike received several prestigious individual awards including The Bronze Star, Army Service, Army Overseas Service, NATO Bosnia, Korea Defense Service, Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development, Global War on Terrorism, National Defense and too many others to list. His unit also received the Army Presidential Unit Citation. His family is very proud of him.

Mike retired from the Army having achieved the rank of sargent first class. After leaving the Army, he settled near his last duty station in Hinesville, where Aimee and grandson Hunter joined him and enriched his life. Mike relocated back to Iraq for one year, where he served as a contractor to the military. Back in Hinesville, he was employed at International Greetings USA.

Mike enjoyed riding his motorcycle and was a member of the Patriot Guard Motorcycle group. He spent much time enjoying hobbies around his house, but his most treasured time was spent with his daughter and grandson. He was looking forward to the birth of his second grandson, Sawyer, who was born June 2.

He will be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Charlene Fourtner; brother-in-law, Clancy Mullen; and a nephew, Lukis Laudenklos.

Survivors include his daughter, Aimee; two grandchildren, Hunter Aaron and Sawyer Michael, all of Hinesville; a brother, Robert (Connie Wilson) Diehl of Fort Collins, Colorado; two sisters, Lori (Ron) Fischer of Shelby and Terri Mullen of North Platte; nieces and nephews, Trish, Sarah, Shay, Whitney, Emily, Kate, Brenda and Brian; and a host of friends.

Memorials are suggested to the family and may be sent to 300 Sheila Drive, Hinesville, GA 31313.

Cremation was chosen. Services will be at a later date.