I’m asking for help for someone I and many others loved dearly, my Uncle Mike, Michael Wayne McCarn, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026.

Uncle Mike was a proud Vietnam Air Force vet, a loadmaster who helped bring POWs home. But to us, he was more than his service. He was music, laughter, Grill Master! (I will miss his famous BBQ beef ribs) all the while playing his guitar.

If he wasn’t playing his guitar or fiddle, whittling, or fixing something he was cooking, his true love language.

He was so proud of his Cherokee heritage and even gave my cousins Indian names — Kirsten was “Star Child,” and Shane was “Yellow Horse.”

Just weeks ago, our family lost his son, Shane McCarn, at only 44 years young. Shane’s passing is devastating for the family, his funeral is February 28th. The family has already stretched themselves financially for cousin Shane's expenses, now the heartbreak has come again with compounding expenses for my uncle.

Uncle Mike lived simply on Social Security. He had no savings, no life insurance, and no will. He passed with $40 in his bank account and past-due bills. His estate has no funds to cover even basic final expenses.

My cousin is now left trying to navigate arrangements, paperwork, and debt while grieving both her father and her brother.

All these years they're family has risen to help many family, friends, and people in their lives during hardships. Now they need the support and help to cover Uncle Mike's costs so they can honor his wish to be laid to rest at the VA cemetery in Dixon.

If Uncle Mike ever made you smile with his fiddle, fed you ribs from his grill, or helped fix something for you with his steady hands, please consider donating. If you can’t give, sharing this would mean so much.

After losing both father and brother within weeks, our family simply cannot carry this alone.

With love and appreciation,

Jeanna