Robert Michael “Mike” Clay, 75, of Plainfield, passed away peacefully at his residence on April 28, 2026.

Mike was born on September 11, 1950, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late William Robert Clay and Ruth J. Miller Clay. He carried a deep respect and gratitude for his parents throughout his life, often crediting them for the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance that shaped the man he became.

From an early age and inspired by previous familial generations, Mike showed a remarkable passion for aviation, earning his pilot’s license at just 13 years old, a rare and impressive accomplishment that set the tone for a lifetime spent in the skies.

He went on to serve his country honorably as a veteran of the United States Army, where he continued to cultivate his love of flying as a member of the Army Flying Club and as a flight instructor, generously sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with others.

Following his military service, Mike built a distinguished civilian career as an air traffic controller in Indianapolis. For 24 years, he played a vital role in ensuring the safety and precision of countless flights, earning the respect of colleagues and the aviation community before retiring to day trading.

In his downtime, Mike found peace and joy on the waters of Patoka Lake, where he was an avid fisherman. He knew the lake like the back of his hand, and those quiet hours spent casting a line were among his most cherished whether he was alone or alongside his children.

Above all, Mike was a devoted father who took great pride in his children. He was deeply committed to their lives, offering guidance, support, and unwavering love, and he found one of his greatest joys in watching them grow and succeed.

Mike will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to aviation, his service to his country, his devotion to his family, and the steady, principled way he lived his life.

Friends and family are invited to meet at White Lick Cemetery on North White Lick Road in Mooresville, Indiana for a 10 a.m. for a graveside service on Monday May 4, 2026.

Survived by his son, Christopher Clay; daughters, Alicia (Matthew) Chastain and Elizabeth Clay Vandergrift; grandchildren, Mariah Chastain, Brayton Chastain, Kolton Chastain, Dylan South, Jaydon Clay, Alexis Vandergrift, and Haven Vandergrift; and sister, Jenny (John) Dobbs.

Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield is handling arrangements.