Michael A. Hollacher

Michael Allen Hollacher, 66, passed away Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, at his home surrounded by family after bravely battling pancreatic cancer.

A celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 8 at Stevensville United Methodist Church, 5506 Ridge Road, Stevensville. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, from 10-11 a.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Stevensville United Methodist Church or Corewell Health Hospice and Palliative Care. Arrangements are being handled by Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph.

Michael was the only son of Theodore and JoAnn Hollacher and was born, raised and lived his whole life in Southwest Michigan. He attended Lakeshore High School where he met his wife Kathy (Nyland) Hollacher. From a young age, Michael knew that he wanted to help others, and this calling led him to pursue a degree in criminal justice. He attended Michigan State University, graduating in 1982 with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.

Using this newfound education, Michael joined the St. Joseph Police Department in 1982. Michael spent 28 years with St. Joseph Police Department, starting as a dispatcher. He eventually moved up to becoming a patrolman and distinguished himself through his level-headed decision-making and his dedication to the fair application of the law. He was promoted to sergeant in 1997 and his talent for organization and relationship building grew until he reached his highest rank at SJPD of captain in 2003. Captain Hollacher honorably served in that role until he retired from the force in 2012. Following his retirement from SJPD, Michael was unable to shake the need to help others and he took jobs as a code enforcement officer, sheriff's bailiff and finally a St. Joseph school bus driver where he remained until 2023.

While he devoted much of his life to police work, Michael always made sure to make ample time for his family. He was often found attending his children's activities, such as recording his daughter's dance recitals, driving in the snow for ball games, or cheering on his son from the sidelines. Even after a long day on the force, Michael was always willing to open up his house to his children's many friends without complaint. One of his favorite things to do was travel. However, his favorite destination was Gatlinburg, Tenn. He brought his family there many years to vacation, a place he loved since he was a child. Later in life, he took on a new title of "Papa" when his grandchildren: Anthony, Scarlett and Forrest were born, a role that he truly cherished and loved. He was a devoted son, loving husband, strong father and proud Papa.

Michael is survived by his father, Theodore; his wife of 40 years, Kathy; his two children: Michael (Chelsie Hardin) Hollacher II and Katelin Hollacher and his three loving grandchildren: Anthony, Scarlett and Forrest Hollacher, as well as many beloved friends and extended family.