Michael D. Fontaine

Michael D. Fontaine, Jr., 41 of Plainfield, passed away on February 28, 2026 at Eskenazi Hospital. Michael was born October 17, 1984 to Michael Fontaine and Elisa Ranieri. He graduated from Martinsville High School in 2003 and then went on to earn an Associate’s degree from Ivy Tech Community College. 

On December 1, 2006, Michael married his high school sweetheart,  Melinda Fontaine (Nott). They have shared 23 years together and 19 years of marriage with unconditional love. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, and most importantly their four children: Michael III, Madison, Matthew, and Meredith Fontaine. 

Michael proudly served his country in the Army National Guard for more than two years and continued his service in the United States Army as an active duty infantryman and mortarman for over five years. His dedication, strength, and sense of duty were evident in all areas of life. 

A jack of all trades, Michael earned certifications in HVAC, Makino cnc machining, aggregate operations, and welding. He also worked as an above ground miner, machinist and a maintenance supervisor for DHL. His leadership, work ethic and willingness to learn were deeply valued. 

Above all, Michael cherished time with his children and family. He was self-sacrificing, loving, and endlessly likable-the life of the party with a rare gift for conversation. Michael never met a stranger; his warmth and humor made everyone feel welcome and valued. Michael had a deep love for animals and the outdoors. He enjoyed raising chickens and pigs and always dreamed of living on a farm. Animals seemed naturally drawn to him, just as people were. He found joy in welding, working on cars with friends, and listening to all genres of music. Michael was a gifted musician, he could play the cello, bass, guitar, and drums; music was one of the many ways he expressed his vibrant spirit.

Michael’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his generous heart, his many talents, and the joy he brought into every room he entered.

Survivors include his wife, Melinda Fontaine; children, Michael lll, Madison, Matthew and Meredith Fontaine; parents, Michael Fontaine (Robyn) and Elisa Ranieri; sisters, Nicole Henry (Bradley), Candice Sherrieb (William), and Marissa Pond (Richard); paternal grandmother, Helen Stanley; paternal grandfather, Paulo Ranieri; mother-in-law, Billie Cooper (Robert); father-in-law, Bart Nott (Sheryl); sister-in-law, Miranda Cooper; grandmother-in-law, Marjorie Money; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Michael was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Neil Fontaine; maternal grandmother, Elisa Ranieri; and paternal step-grandfather, Terry Stanley.

Visitation is Friday March 13, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the chapel at Carlisle-Branson Funeral Service & Crematory in Mooresville. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 1:00 pm with Pastor Steve Pittman officiating. Burial with Military Honors will take place in Friendship Park Cemetery in Paragon.