Michael McKian

Michael Gerard McKian, age 64, of Walker, departed this earthly life on Monday, August 7, 2023 at Faith Hospice Trillium Woods in Byron Center. The son of Frank and Genevieve McKian, he was born on January 23, 1959 in Grand Rapids.

Mike graduated from Union High School in 1977. He worked for Tigers bait shop and General Motors, 36th street plant, in welder maintenance for 28 years before eventually retiring on disability. He was also able to take welding courses through Grand Rapids Junior College while working. Mike was an avid hunter and fisherman. His love for the outdoors started as a young child, as he was introduced by his father. The family would camp frequently in northern Michigan and enjoy summers at the lake. In April 1989 Mike married Maria at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Shortly after marriage Mike and Maria had two girls. He taught them how to fish, hunt, camp and find morel mushrooms. Mike, along with his wife, were on a bowling league at Lincoln Country Club. Mike would take his family camping in Wolverine at Circle S Campground and in Ludington at Laman’s Landing. More recently Mike was a member and past President of the Steelheaders-Grand Rapids Chapter. He spent most free time hunting, fishing, with family, tinkering in the garage, and at his favorite place, the family cottage in Sand Lake.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frank McKian; wife, Maria McKian; niece, Amanda Steffes; and brother-in-law, Gary Castor. Surviving are his mother, Genevieve McKian; children, Marlene McKian and Melissa McKian; grandchild Ezra McKian; siblings, Sue Castor, Kathy (Jim) Steffes, Thomas McKian, and Patrick McKian; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A private family Mass will take place. Friends are welcome to join an open house style Celebration Of Life from 11:00am until 12:30pm Friday, August 11, 2023 at Rosedale Memorial Park Cemetery, 50 Lake Michigan Dr Grand Rapids, MI 49544. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Mike to Faith Hospice 2100 Raybrook Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 or online at https://faithhospicecare.org/donate/

Or to Michigan United Conservation Clubs 2101 Wood Street Lansing, MI 48912 or online at https://michiganunitedconservationclubs.app.neoncrm.com/forms/onlinedonate