Beloved husband and devoted best friend of Dorothy (née Uhlmann) for 45 wonderful years. Fierce protector and loving father of Lisa (Alexander) Grabowski of Detroit, and Megan (Jeffrey) Stempin of Livonia. Buddy and cherished grandfather of Alexander, Marie, and Sophie Grabowski and Michael and Josephine Stempin. Treasured brother of Harry (Konnie) Gill of Bay City, Rosemary Kenyon of Raleigh, NC, Margaret Gill of Bay City, and Mary Jo (Kellen) Lynch of Livonia. Dearest uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Mike moved from Syracuse, New York to Bay City, Michigan when he was eight years old. He attended St. James Grade School, graduated from All Saints Central High School in 1970, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He furthered his education at the University of Michigan where he earned a Master of Mechanical Engineering and later at Wayne State University, earning a Master of Business Administration in International Business. Mike married the love of his life, Dorothy, on September 17, 1977.
Mike’s employment at Ford Motor Company enabled him to travel the world, the highlight of which was an assignment with Ford of Australia that brought the Gill family on a great adventure. His career with Ford spanned 41 years and culminated with his retirement in 2018. He was a committed member of the Men’s Group at St. Michael and took great pride in serving as the Eucharistic Minister for the choir.
Mike enjoyed tinkering around the house, which often resulted in long and complicated projects, always done to perfection. He took great pleasure in travel, making his way to all 50 states and 5 continents. The camping trips that he took with his family to Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon were among his favorites. Family was of the utmost importance to Mike. He was a hands-on father and grandfather, never happier than when sharing new experiences with his children and grandchildren.
Mike lived his life with integrity, determination, and profound faith. Never was his character more apparent than when he faced his final illness. He was an inspiration to many and is deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation on Sunday, November 6, 2022 from 2PM-8PM with a Rosary at 7PM at Harry J. Will Funeral Home: 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. In State at 10:00AM on Monday, November 7, 2022 with Funeral Mass at 10:30AM at St. Michael the Archangel: 11441 Hubbard, Livonia, MI 48150.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Emily Ann Griffin Foundation, ℅ Inger Griffin, 15587 Blue Skies, Livonia, Michigan 48154.
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