Michael H. Bentley (Bailey), 63, of Jefferson, NJ, passed away the morning of Sunday, March 8, 2026, surrounded by his family at Morristown Medical Center. Born on March 30, 1962, to Robert and Janet Bentley, Mike graduated from Boonton High School and followed in his father’s footsteps to become a high-voltage electrician. He began his career with JCP&L and later retired from American Electrical Testing.
Mike will be remembered for his boundless energy, his joy for life, and—most importantly—his humor and positivity, even throughout his lengthy health battles. Many in his life were blessed with his hand-crafted wooden works of art. Mike was deeply passionate about hunting and fishing and loved spending time outdoors. Some of his happiest moments were spent with family and close friends at the family cabin in Canada.
His dogs brought him endless joy, and we find comfort in knowing he is now surrounded by the pups who left before him and patiently waited for his arrival.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberlee; his children, Donna (Ryan), Michael (Brianna), Jonathan (Kate), and Heather; his grandchildren, Connor, Ian, Hunter, and Hallie; his mother, Janet; and his brothers, Robert Jr. (Mary Clare), Edward (Jill), and David (Linda). He was predeceased by his father, Robert Sr.
A wake will be held at Dangler, Lewis, and Carey Funeral Home on March 20, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. All who knew and loved Mike are invited to join in honoring and celebrating his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project or the Lewy Body Dementia Foundation, two causes close to their hearts.
Wounded Warrior: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
Lewy Body Dementia Foundation: https://lbda.org/donate