Mike and I met in the “neighborhood” (Alter Road, Detroit) as kids and have been best friends ever since. Our friendship has lasted over five decades ((52) plus years). When I sat down to write about our friendship, I did not know what to write because Mike was a brother to me and losing Mike opened a hole in my heart that I hope one day will heal.  We shared so many good times together, I will share a few and  I can only hope it will reveal what a wonderful man and genuine friend Michael John Joyce was to me. 
When we were kids, Mike and I played baseball seven days a week: spring, summer, fall and parts of winter.  Mike and I would get up early and head to the ball field and play baseball from dawn to dusk.  When the sun set and we could not see the baseball, Mike and I would walk to Mueller’s Market and purchase a “POP” and bag of barbequed potato chips. Once we got our snack, Mike and I would sit on the sidewalk, just feet from the store entrance, and talk baseball for hours while we consumed our snacks. My Lord, those were the days. 
As teenagers Mike and I experienced a lot of firsts: our first job together, our first beer, our first boiler makers, our first car, and our first double date – which did not go as planned.
Every time I visited Michigan, Mike and I would get together under the watchful eyes of Sandy.  Every now and then Sandy would let him leave the house with me, but we were always given a conditional CURFEW. Sandy would say firmly, “JOHNNY BRING HIM HOME IN ONE PIECE.”  I always brought Mike home on time, mostly sober and in one piece. 
A few years back Mike, my brother’s Troy, and Lane, and I took a trip to Lakeland, Florida to watch the Detroit Tigers play spring training baseball games.  Mike had the time of his life. 
May God Bless, Sandy, Michael, Matthew, Jessica, and the grandchildren. 
Believe me, Mike is looking down from heaven and keeping an eye on you.  Do not ever worry………he has got you back. 
Love, John (Johnny), Cynthia and family


Mike and I met downtown at a lunch place he dined at while working at the Detroit people mover.  I was a server, Mike and I became friends and we have kept in contact through all these past 12 years. Mike always told me about his family, his children, wife, and especially his grandchildren who brought him so much joy. No matter what happened mike always told me “ don’t worry, I’m a strong Irishman!” What a kind, compassionate and good natured person he was. I was lucky to have know him and to have his as a friend, a friend, that I will miss dearly talking to!  Thought and prayers to the entire Joyce family and Mike, I will always think of you and smile. 

Michael was my busboy at Corfu Restaurant before he became a great cook. He always took care of us girls and made sure noone bothered us. I will always be greatful that I had a chance to meet this wonderful man. He kept me positive when my husband got sick even on the days that he himself wasn't feeling so great. You will be forever in my heart and soul.
Love Debbie Sims

It’s so hard for me to write this out. 
Uncle Mike and Aunt Sandy, were a huge part of my childhood and adult life.
All of my memories of Uncle Mike are full of laughter, sarcasm, and fun.
One time at a family members wedding he asked me to dance. As we’re dancing he says “When you get married, that man, is going to be lucky to have you.” As a kid, this really stuck with me. It boosted my confidence, it made me feel like I had some worth. I wish I would’ve told him how much that one comment meant to me.  
My heart breaks for my Aunt Sandy, and their children, Michael, Matthew and Jessica, even for his 2 amazing grandchildren. He was taken way too soon.  I love you all. 
Karen, Ken and kids 

All my love and condolences to my sister Sandy my nephews Michael and Matt and niece Jessica. Mike was a great man.  He was always there whenever you needed him , always new how to make you smile. He will always be missed   You are in my thoughts and prayers love ❤️ you.  Greg and Diana 

My memories of Uncle Mike are filled with fun and laughter. He was the life of the party, always joking and having fun. He was kind, compassionate, funny and the best Uncle in the whole world. We will miss him so much. Our hearts go out to Aunt Sandy, Michael, Matthew and Jessica. We love you guys. Rest easy Uncle Mike, we love you.

Love Lisa & Mark

Aunt Sandy, 

You and Uncle Mike welcomed me into your home when I needed you most. Mary and I will always be grateful for everything you did for us.
 
"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal."

All our love, 
Shawn and Mary

Sending love and condolences to Aunt Sandy, Michael, Matthew and Jessica, Uncle Mike was the funniest person I knew, always wanting to put a smile on your face and would do anything for the people he loved, I am grateful you had such a wonderful husband/father in your life, and that I was able to be a part of his life as well, he will always be in my heart.  Love all of you and I will always cherish the memories I have of him. 

Dear Sandy, Michael, Matt and Jessica,
    Our entire family sends their condolences.  Mike was a great man and will be very much missed. It was obvious to all that his family was the center of his life. You all are in our prayers. 

Dear Sandy, Michael, Matthew and Jessica.
 We are so very sorry for the loss of your husband and father,  Michael.   Sandy, I know that you were the love of Michael's life.  He loved and cared so much for all of you. He considered himself to be a "tough old Irishman",  but, he had a big soft spot for all of you.  He will be missed, but, his memory will live on. 
Love,  Maureen and Stephen Gareau

OBITUARY

Michael John Joyce

27 July, 1958 – 31 March, 2021

Harry J Will Funeral Homes

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