Mike was called home August 3, 2024 in Pinedale WY, surrounded by his family. Mike was born the 26th of November in 1948. He spent most of his childhood in the greater Lansing area. Mike enlisted into the Army in 1966 where he proudly served for two years. He then met the love of his life Laura Jean Suydam, while attending the Assembly of God in Big Rapids. They later on were married on August 4, 1973. Mike and Laura naturally settled into their roles as parents as they were blessed with their three sons. They proudly raised their sons and settled their roots in Stanwood for 42 years. Mike relocated to Wyoming after the passing of his wife to be closer to family.
Mike spent a lifetime serving his Lord & Savior working in the Ministry spreading the word of gospel. Mike worked with troubled youth at Eagle Village and could be found preaching in several prisons and jails. Mike started New Life Christian Ministries in Big Rapids with help from many of his brothers and sisters. Mike was proud and fulfilled by serving wherever the Lord directed him.
Mike enjoyed the outdoor life of hunting and fishing with his sons, and some of his grandchildren. Mike instilled a love for the outdoors in his three sons. There are many untold, and cherished memories of hunting and fishing with his family. Mike loved spending time with his family no matter the occasion and was thrilled to be present during many hunting adventures in Wyoming.
Mike was very involved with the local Amish community around the Stanwood area. He often could be found making several trips a day to town or would even embark on some out-of-state trips to help with transportation needs. One thing for sure was he never missed an opportunity to stock up with some fresh baked sticky buns or cookies from their local bakery.
Mike is survived by his sons: Joe (Trisha) of Excelsior, MN, Dave (Janell) of Worland, WY, Phil (Teren) of Pinedale, WY. Grandchildren: Abby (Alex) Petterson, Natalie Donley, Madison Donley, Bryce Donley, Jeremy Donley, Jesse Donley, Braxton aka Baxter. Great grandchildren: Wyatt & Sawyer Petterson. Siblings: Roger (Laurie) Donley, Sheri (Steve) Carroll, Sheryl (Bob) Young, Sandy Donley, and lots of nieces and nephews.
Mike was preceded in death by his wife Laura Donley, parents William and Patricia Donley, and brother William (Billy Bob) Donley.
Mike would want everyone to remember that Jesus is Lord, and we will all meet again if you trust in the Lord. It doesnt matter how cloudy today seems the sun will come up in the morning and "Its a beautiful day in the neighborhood" everyday.
Funeral Services will take place 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 10, 2024 at the Daggett Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor Lynn Winans officiating. Mike will be laid to rest at the Stanwood Cemetery with military honors.
The family will greet friends on Friday, August 9th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions in Mikes memory maybe given to his family.
Share a memory or condolence with the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com
Funeral Service
Saturday, August 10, 2024
2:00 PM
Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home
13985 Northland Drive
Big Rapids,MI
49307
Visitation
Friday, August 9, 2024
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home
13985 Northland Drive
Big Rapids,MI
49307