Michael Douglas Carson, age 71, went home to be with his Savior on Saturday, October 23, 2021. This was a joyous occasion as he was reunited with his precious daughter, Kaelyn; father, Smith Carson; mother, Joyce Johnson Carson; brother, Keith Carson; sister, Carolyn Carson; and brother-in-law, Tony Gilbert.
Michael was born on May 4, 1950, to Smith and Joyce Carson. He was the first of five children, and was a wonderful role model to each of his siblings. He was raised in Detroit where he attended Our Lady of Victory Catholic School. During these years, he took seriously his role as an altar boy, never wanted to be late, practiced his Latin every day, and memorized each responsibility. Michael graduated from Southfield High School where he enjoyed singing in the choir and playing on the football and baseball teams.
Michael went on to earn a B.S. in Business Administration from Central Michigan University where he was a proud member of Phi Sigma Epsilon. During his senior year, he successfully completed an internship with Michigan Consolidated Gas Company which led to a fulfilling thirty-year career.
Retiring in 2001, Michael enjoyed frequent golf outings and vacations with family and friends. He was meticulous in all things, polished, and a real gentleman. Michael was thoughtful and observant of others, frequently lending a hand to those in need. He was a dedicated member of many service organizations including the Optimist Club, Lions Club, and Ambucs. Cooking and entertaining were two of his passions, and he particularly enjoyed hosting special events for family and friends.
A proud father, he never missed a dance recital, sporting event, or pageant. He packed every school lunch for his wife and daughters, prepared breakfast for every member of the household, including the dog, and sought out multiple ways to dote upon his beloved girls. Being a grandfather to his precious Brooklyn was a life-changing experience which brought him incredible joy and earned him the loving nickname “Peepaw.”
Michael’s life was centered around his faith and family. His surviving family members will one day greet him in a joyful reunion. These include his wife, Brenda Carson; daughter, Jordan Carson Kaechele (Kurtis); granddaughter, Brooklyn; sisters, Rhonda Gilbert, Alice Coleman; and many nieces, nephews, and their families.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 29, at 10:00 a.m. at Keystone Community Church located at 655 Spaulding Avenue SE, Ada. A celebration of life will follow at 11:00 a.m., with graveside service at Plainfield Cemetery located at 6205 Packer Drive NE, Belmont. Masks are mandatory at in-person church services. Anyone who wishes to attend the service virtually, may do so by visiting www.keystonecc.org and clicking on “watch live online.”
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Streams of Hope at streamsofhope.org.
9 Responses
It is with a heavy heart that I address the passing of our CMU Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity brother Mike Carson.Mike was a proud member of the Spring 1970 Pledge Class that boasted 27 stellar men. I was honored to be their, and Mike’s, Pledge Master. Pledging in those days could be described as immersing oneself in a series of both highs and lows. Rituals and traditions that had long existed were thrust upon Mike and his pledge brothers. While some may have seemed foolish at the time, eventually the reason for them became clear.Mike earned his way, always taking the sacrifices and humility with a smile; and was a vital part of a strong and unified group. I truly valued him as a brother and was proud that he spent some time at my hunting camp one November, (I think in 1970) following my graduation from CMU.
I am also sad that I never got to know Mike’s family, but I want them to know that I am affected in their grief.
Art Wakeley
mike was a good person and I am very sorry for his friends and family that will miss him very much..
Mike and I pledged together (Phi Sigma Epsilon) in the spring of 1970.
We had alot of laugh’s and some time together on the rock in front of the Phi Sig house.
After reading his obituary, He proved to be a Loving and Respected Father.
I was proud to have Michael Carson in my life.
Mike, thank-you for being a fantastic neighbor and friend. We will miss you and cherish the conversations that we shared, along with the wonderful stories of your precious family. You will be missed by us all. May you Rest In Peace.
Love,
Dave, Sandy and Alexa
I am deeply sadden by the passing of my brother in law. He was very kind to me and I will always remember him with fondness. I pray for peace for his beloved family.
Love and comfort to Brenda, Jordan and their loved ones.
I am very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I too was a Phi Sigma Epsilon Fraternity brother of Mike’s at CMU. I joined a year before Mike. When Mike finished pledging and became active, he moved into the big old house we had. He was a great member and a great brother. Brenda, I remember meeting you and when you and Mike were together, it was obvious you had a deep love for each other. God Bless You and your family in the days ahead.
Michael was a man of his word I was a better person for knowing him
Brenda, Jordan and family. We are so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. He was truly a special person. We had many chuckles over the years as neighbors. He will be greatly missed.
Our condolences,
Roger and Rita Kropf
Brenda and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I not only worked with Mike at Michcon but was also his Neighbor for over 10 years, It was always nice to see Mike. I loved seeing him with his Granddaughter walking her down the street. May he rest in peace.