Michael Charles Haggarty, a lifelong resident of Auburn, Indiana, passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a remarkable legacy deeply intertwined with the Auburn community and, most notably, Auburn State Bank. Born on September 20, 1934, to John D. and Marion (Borst) Haggarty in Auburn, his life journey was one of dedicated service and leadership, particularly within the local financial institution that became a cornerstone of his career.
Haggarty’s commitment to Auburn began early. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1952 before pursuing higher education at Indiana University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business in 1956. His time at IU also saw him become a member of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, experiences that likely shaped his leadership and community-oriented mindset. Shortly after graduating from Indiana University, he married Anne Korsmeyer on June 9, 1956, marking the beginning of a long and enduring partnership.
His professional journey commenced in 1956 at Auburn State Bank, an institution that would become synonymous with his name for decades. This marked the start of a significant chapter in his life and in the history of Auburn State Bank itself. While his service was briefly interrupted by his duty in the United States Army Finance Corp from January 2, 1957, to December 15, 1958, his return to Auburn State Bank solidified his dedication to the banking sector and the Auburn community.
The trajectory of Michael Haggarty’s career at Auburn State Bank was one of consistent growth and leadership. He ascended to the presidency of Auburn State Bank in 1964, a position he held with distinction for an impressive 35 years, until 1999. During his tenure as president, Auburn State Bank played a vital role in the economic landscape of Auburn and the surrounding areas. His leadership ensured the bank’s stability and growth, contributing significantly to the financial well-being of the local community. Following his retirement from Auburn State Bank, Haggarty continued his banking career, taking on the role of president at Citizens State Bank in Waterloo, further demonstrating his enduring commitment to the financial sector in northeast Indiana.
Beyond his impactful career in banking, Michael Haggarty was deeply involved in numerous civic and community organizations, reflecting his commitment to the betterment of Auburn. He was a member and past president of the Auburn Lions Club and a member of the Auburn Elks Lodge, both organizations known for their community service initiatives. His dedication extended to serving on several boards across the local area, showcasing his wide-ranging influence and desire to contribute to various aspects of community life. These boards included prominent institutions such as DeKalb Memorial Hospital, DeKalb Health Foundation, Willennar Foundation, United Fund, Auburn Chamber of Commerce, YMCA Board, YMCA Foundation, Auburn State Bank, Citizens State Bank of Waterloo, Fort Wayne National Bank, Auburn Lions, and the DeKalb County Cancer Board. His involvement in such a diverse range of organizations underscores his dedication to the health, welfare, and progress of the Auburn community.
Michael Charles Haggarty is survived by his wife, Anne Haggarty, his two sons, John D. Haggarty II and Thomas M. Haggarty, along with their families, including three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. While there will be no formal visitation or funeral service, and a private family service will be held later, his legacy as a prominent figure in Auburn, particularly through his long-standing leadership at Auburn State Bank and his extensive community involvement, will undoubtedly endure. Memorial contributions in his name can be directed to the Eckhart Library Foundation or Adoration Hospice, reflecting his values and the causes he supported. His burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Auburn, marking the final resting place of a man who dedicated his life to his community and Auburn State Bank.
