I just learned about  my long time friend, Mike Doyle’s death after trying unsuccessfully to reach him for two months. I met him over forty years ago as a next door neighbor and spent many many fun times discussing our mutual love of film and pop culture. We shared many many meals, gossip sessions, discussions about Doris Day and analyses of all things MSU. He was a unique person who lived his life on his own terms.  May he rest in peace. 

Mike Doyle was an exceptional faculty member at Michigan State University for many years. Students from all over the university were most eager to enroll in his classes and various factors contributed to their interest. First and foremost, Mike cared about each student from an in-depth perspective. At one point in our history, faculty members truly cared about the growth and development of each student. Mike was one faculty member who truly understood this crucial point. For many years, I taught undergraduate and graduate classes in leadership development. One day Mike and I had a very good discussion about what should be one of the central themes in the course. At the end of our discussion we both agreed that great leaders must value, respect, and support all people while achieving greatness.  Clearly, the theme of our agreement was around the issue of caring. Our great country is being tested today perhaps not like any other time in modern history with the pandemic and other challenges. All of us will miss Mike because he cared about our students.

Such sad news about Mike passing away.  I had the privilege of knowing and working with Mike for 17 years at MSU.  He will surely be missed.

Mike managed to carve out his own unique contribution to the University and the College.  And, he went about it with commitment and energy.  He was concerned about the students he taught and always had time to meet and discuss concerns with them.  

Mike was strong beyond belief and was able to overcome some significant events in his life that would have  devastated most others.  He appeared casual and  laid-back but was truly a fighter.

Mike went out of his way to stay connected to those he trusted and respected.  Today's world can use more Mike Doyles!

https://www.kurtgippert.com/pages/books/2413baQ/gerald-r-ford/selected-speeches-edited-by-michael-v-doyle-ph-d

https://www.amazon.com/Michigan-Movie-Theatres-Pictorial-History/dp/0967757029




Mike was like a brother to me. That is an overused cliche, but he really was a part of our family ever since he and my mother attended MSU  in the early '60s. After my father died, he was her travel companion and "honorary son." He will be missed.

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home

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Michael Vincent Doyle

21 October, 1942 – 8 November, 2021

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes

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