The community of Weddington, North Carolina, is mourning the loss of Michael “Mike” Verardo, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant and decorated infantryman of the 82nd Airborne Division, who passed away unexpectedly. Mike will be remembered not only as a devoted soldier, but also as a loving husband, father, friend, and mentor whose courage and resilience left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
A Life of Service and Sacrifice
Born with a sense of duty and dedication to his country, Mike proudly served in the United States Army, where he embodied honor, loyalty, and selflessness. His service took him to Afghanistan, where in 2010 his life changed forever. While on deployment, he was severely wounded by an improvised explosive device (IED), sustaining catastrophic injuries that required over 120 surgeries and years of rehabilitation.
The road to recovery was long and grueling, but Mike’s determination never wavered. With the support of his family and his unwavering faith, he faced every challenge head-on. Though his injuries would have broken many, Mike transformed his pain into purpose, becoming a source of strength and inspiration to countless others.
A Second Chance Dedicated to Others
After surviving his near-fatal wounds, Mike dedicated his life to helping others. He became an outspoken advocate for wounded veterans and their families, lending his voice to causes that brought attention to the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. He also participated in adaptive sports competitions, where his perseverance inspired both fellow veterans and civilians alike.
Beyond his advocacy, Mike was deeply rooted in his faith and community. He was an active member of his church and used his experiences to mentor and encourage those facing adversity. His ability to uplift others, even while enduring constant challenges himself, reflected his extraordinary character and compassion.
A Legacy of Courage and Love
While his service and resilience are widely admired, those closest to Mike knew him as a loving family man. He cherished his role as a husband and father, finding joy in the simple, everyday moments with his family that he once came close to losing. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and they were the center of his world.
Mike leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and perseverance, one that continues to inspire his fellow veterans, his community, and all who had the honor of knowing him. His life embodied the very best of the American spirit—sacrifice, strength, and selfless service to others.
Remembering Mike
As news of Mike’s passing spreads, tributes have poured in from across the country—from fellow service members, veteran organizations, friends, and community members—all honoring the profound impact he made during his life. Though his time was cut short, the light he shared will continue to guide and inspire for generations to come.
Mike is survived by his beloved family, who stood faithfully by his side through every challenge. They, along with his community and nation, will carry forward his memory with pride, gratitude, and love.