arms of his Lord and Savior on January 17, 2022 after a long battle with illness and the effects
of agent orange. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather whose imagination and
love of adventure would fuel his life as a soldier, salesman, entrepreneur, author, inventor, and
magician.
Michael was born on Friday the 13th, 1945, and was the cherished son of Douglas Molean and
June Hilda Ball. He graduated from Avondale High School where he accumulated many
accolades and honors for his academics and was a star athlete. In 1964, he married the love
of his life, Mary Jean Anderson, and they were inseparable for nearly 60 years along with their
three beautiful children and four grandchildren. In 1966, he was drafted and proudly served his
country with the US Army in Vietnam. He returned in 1968 with honors. He obtained a degree
in Linear Programming Mathematics from Oakland University. Michael worked in the
automotive industry as the Superintendent of Pre-Production Operations at General Motors
Truck Group before retiring in style. During his very busy retirement, he authored two books,
co-founded a successful business, and let his imagination run wild. In the time between his
creative passions and career, he loved taking walks in the woods with his family, going to
Frankenmuth and supporting his local fudge shop, and telling stories about his childhood that
were mostly true. Michael will forever live in our hearts and his indomitable spirit lives on
through the family he spent a lifetime inspiring. He gave all and is missed dearly.
Michael was survived by his wife, Mary Jean Anderson; his children, Mary Jean Hoffmeyer,
Ryan Ricky Russel Ball and Susan Naef; and his grandchildren, Anna Seirena Hoffmeyer, David
Michael Naef, Joshua Edward Naef and Luke Thomas Naef; his siblings, Carolyn Verda Stormer
and Robert Bruce Ball.
A private viewing will be held at a later date.
