Michael James Plavchan

Michael James Plavchan  (Mike), born on March 9, 1952, in Lorraine County, OH, departed this life on February 23, 2026 in Lexington, Kentucky.  He is dearly remembered as a devoted husband and step-father.  While earlier in life Michael had been a steel worker, he dedicated most of his working life as an over-the road truck driver, where he was respected and admired by his colleagues for his commitment to his work. After retirement Michael worked part-time in retail at Meijer’s. He approached his work life with the same tenacity that characterized all aspects of his life.

Beyond his career achievements, Michael was an avid woodworker, biker and a lover of classical music. He especially enjoyed and loved the several Bible study groups in which he was involved. 

Michael leaves behind his beloved wife, Deborah Christensen-Plavchan, of Lexington, Kentucky; four stepsons, Christian M Christensen IV (Nikole) of Lexington, Kentucky, Matthew Christensen (Shannon) of Lexington, Kentucky, Sean Christensen (Joanna) of Farmingdale, New York, and Blair Christensen (Kyra) of Galena, Ohio. He is also survived by two brothers, David Plavchan and Thomas Plavchan and a brother-in-law, Alan Anderson, as well as several nieces  nephews and cousins.

He was loved as "Poppy-Mike" by ten grandchildren, Katie, Duncan and Flora (Christian/Nikole); Jacob (Matthew/Sabrina Haney); J.T. and Natalie (Matthew/Shannon); Marc, Anibel and Madelyn (Sean/Joanna); and Blair Jr. (Blair/Kyra), all of whom he loved dearly.

Michael will also be missed by his close friends in the trucking & work communities, biking community and Bible study communities. The family would like to extend their appreciation to all of them for their support offered and given during this time.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Michael S. Plavchan and Louisa Lawler Plavchan, as well as his sister, Lynn Anderson.

In his passing, we celebrate the joy and laughter he brought into our lives and the indelible mark he left on all who knew him. His legacy of love, adventure, and creativity will continue to inspire those he cherished.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Michael’s life is planned for May 2, 2026 from 2-4:00 p.m. in the Sisk Chapel at Immanuel Baptist Church, 3100 Tates Creek Rd., Lexington, KY.

In lieu of flowers, Mike asked that donations be directed towards PreBorn at PreBorn.com.

May he rest in peace, embraced and remembered lovingly in the hearts of his family and many friends.