Michael Thomas Parent

Michael Thomas Parent, age 57 of Clinton Township, died Monday, July 1, 2019 at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born February 11, 1962 in Dearborn, Michigan, son of Marjorie Gail (nee: Kelley) Parent, and the late Thomas Parent.

After wading the waters of preliminary employment in his younger years, Michael would finally land a job that was perfect for his infectious personality as a car salesman at Mt. Clemens Dodge. For over 20 years, his was one of the smiling faces that greeted you at the door and tended to your needs and desires, but there was none other like Michael. No matter what the business of the day may have entailed, you could count on Michael to provide the levity and laughter that made your shopping experience both memorable and unique. Michael had a way with people that made you feel like you were the most special one in the room,…and he truly knew how to work a room. He was an outstanding car salesman who worked hard to earn peoples’ trust and loyalty, and genuinely listened so he could put you in the car of your dreams. When Mt. Clemens Dodge fell by the wayside, Michael decided to branch out on his own and opened a Used Car lot in the city of Eastpointe, where he has been ever since. Big Bob had nothin’ on Michael,…his many customers would easily attest to the great deals he extended and the cost savings they realized because of Michael’s incredible generosity. As much as he was a businessman, he was equally your friend and partner in putting those brand new keys in your hand.

Michael worked hard so he could afford a few pleasures in life,…like his love of golfing. Nothing said fun quite like sharing a golf cart with a loved one or friend as he headed out to tame the course and do his best imitation of the infamous Arnold Palmer. Always in search of that elusive Hole-in-One, Michael simply enjoyed swingin’ the irons, shootin’ the bull, and soakin’ up the memories made along the way. From Michigan to the majesty of Pinehurst in North Carolina, to the enchanting setting of Hawaii, Michael managed to accrue quite the impressive list of courses visited throughout the country, and gave his clubs quite a workout in the process.

Another of Michael’s pastime passions included the “art” of fishing. That’s right,…art. Though we all know that fishing is a sport, Michael had a finesse that set him apart from the rest,…and watching him fish was like watching Picasso with his paints. He had his own unique style when he cast his line out, and simply waited patiently for that tell-tale sign that his patience was about to pay off. Whether fishing off the dock in Harrison Township, or Livin’ Large in the waters of Alaska, a bite was a bite,…it was just a matter of what kind of prize lie at the end of the fishing line? And while on the topic of a water related theme, this bio would be sadly remiss if not for mentioning Michael’s love of boating,…especially when he was aboard his own watercraft, a 28 foot Formula PC. Just gas it up, hit the throttle, and Go Baby! Nothing says “Pure Michigan” quite like running the engines wide open on a wide open lake,…and Michael certainly knew how to Captain, and enjoy, his vessel. Even just sitting, anchored quietly on the water, provided a genuine sense of pleasure that Michael enjoyed with each opportunity afforded him.

Michael will also be remembered for his incredible talents in cooking. He loved preparing food and bringing delight to the dining experience. With a resume that reflected a previous position as a chef’s apprentice, Michael surely knew his way around the kitchen and had studied the finer points of creating culinary magic,…magic he performed for countless family and friends over the years. He knew how to tickle your palate and make your mouth water. If you left his table hungry, you simply weren’t trying.

Though mention has been made regarding some of Michael’s other sporting enjoyment, this would be the time to address his pinnacle pleasure in the game of hockey. Michael loved the game, lived for the game, and was one of hockey’s most devout fans. But we must take a step back for a moment and reflect once again on the unique circumstances that molded Michael’s life. He was just a young man when he lost his father, so adulthood came quickly for Michael. We all take solace in our own unique way, and hockey was that comfortable blanket for Michael. So it made perfect sense that he would pass down that same fervor and passion for the sport to his son, Bradley, a fellow hockey enthusiast. And not merely one who appreciated hockey, Bradley also played the sport,…and Michael was his biggest fan and mentor. He made each moment count and was grateful for the camaraderie that he and Bradley were able to share together,…not only in hockey, but in life.

A wonderful & loving husband and father,…a beloved son and brother,…and an uncle that defined the word “fun,”…Michael was so many things to so many people, yet he always maintained the standard of respect and kindness for all. Like the old adage states; “he never met a stranger.” Perhaps it was the salesman inside? Perhaps it was God-ordained? Whatever the case may be, the truth stands tall that Michael impacted countless hearts and lives in his journey this side of Heaven, and leaves a legacy of love that will be embraced by all who were blessed to know him.

Michael leaves our presence at far too young an age, but not without  imparting some of life’s vital lessons as he fought like a Champ. He defined strength amidst insurmountable odds,…garnered peace amidst the pain,…and, now, lives on to struggle no more, safe in the arms of God. Though it pained their hearts to say good-bye, Michael’s hand was being held the entire time by his Amazing Wife & Son who cared for him like no other. They were truly his angels here on earth. Rest in peace, Michael.         

Michael was the beloved husband of Renee Ann (nee: Roberts) Parent, and the loving father of Bradley Michael Parent. Dearest brother of Susan Cathleen (Robert) Machasic and Kimberly Gail Parent. Cherished uncle of Ryan Machasic, Thomas (Carly) Machasic, Alexandria (Michael) Van Wert, Anastasia Machasic, Zachary Padron, and great-uncle to Olivia Katherine Machasic.

Visitation for Michael will be held Wednesday, July 3rd from 12-5 pm, with a 4 pm Funeral Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road) in Warren.

Memorial donations are welcomed to the Fr. Solanus Casey Center, 1780 Mt. Elliott Street, Detroit, Michigan 48207.  (www.solanuscenter.org)

Please share memories of Michael at his guest book below.