Michael R Cleland

Michael Robert Cleland, 62, of Kimball Township, died Saturday, November 25, 2023.

He was born June 21, 1961 in Alpena to Ann A. and the late Donald E. Cleland.

Mike graduated from Farmington High School in 1979. He worked in the automotive parts industry for many years and moved to the Blue Water Area in 1997 to be closer to his parents. Don instilled a love of sports in his son at a young age and Michael became quite the sports fan and athlete. He was a talented hockey player in his youth and especially enjoyed his time on the Wasik Funeral Home team that his Uncle Earl coached with Don as assistant coach. Even years later, he still had a mean slapshot when the family would play pond hockey. Mike was also a big Detroit Tigers fan.

Some of Mike’s other passions included Nascar, especially Dale Earnhart, and great lakes shipping. He spent many lunch breaks watching the freighters underneath the Blue Water Bridges and was very knowledgeable about each ship. He loved spending time on the family “farm” in Avoca, especially sitting around the fire with his loved ones. His family and friends will never forget Mike’s uncanny ability to quote movies and his sense of humor.

He is survived by his mother, Ann; sister, Gwen Mitch (Rick Adams); brother, David (Tamera) Cleland; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 in Pollock-Randall Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Dr. Joseph Baunoch will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Water Area Humane Society. Arrangements are by Pollock-Randall Funeral Home. To send condolences, visit pollockrandall.com