10/26/2026
Some of the people who make the biggest difference in the fire service are the ones who work quietly behind the scenes, never looking for recognition or asking for anything in return.
For our Collierville Firefighters, Mike Hoysler, better known as “Uncle Mike,” is one of those people.
Mike may not wear the uniform, but he is every bit a part of our fire department family. Over the years, he has spent countless hours cooking for our crews, sharing stories around the firehouse table, lending an ear when someone needs to talk, and finding little ways to make someone’s day better.
Known affectionately as our “battalion chef,” Mike has brought us plenty of good food, laughter, friendship, and, of course, his famous “vitamin G.” But what makes Uncle Mike so special has never really been about the food. It’s the way he cares for people. He has a gift for making everyone feel like family, and he gives so much of himself without ever expecting anything in return.
Now, as Mike faces cancer a second time, we want to take a moment to recognize someone who has spent so much time taking care of everyone else.
Uncle Mike, you may not realize just how many lives you’ve touched or how much you’ve meant to the firefighters and families who have been fortunate enough to know you. You’ve been there for us through good days and difficult ones, and we want you to know that we’re here for you, too.
Thank you for every meal, every conversation, every laugh, and every quiet act of kindness. More than anything, thank you for loving this fire department like your own family.
We know we’re not the only ones who have been fortunate enough to have Uncle Mike in our lives. If you have a favorite memory, a story, or simply want to share what Mike means to you, we’d love for you to leave it in the comments.
Let’s fill this post with some of the same kindness and happiness he’s spent so many years sharing with others.
Mike, we hope you know just how loved and appreciated you are. You’ve made a difference in more lives than you probably realize, and we are pretty lucky to call you family.