Brian Michaels Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Voran Funeral Home - Taylor Chapel on Jul. 27, 2025.
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Brian Timothy Michaels, born April 29, 1949, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025. A devoted and loving husband, dad, papa, and friend, Brian was a pillar of strength and love throughout his life.
Brian shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Linda. Together, they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories. He was the proud father of three daughters: Tamara (Richard) Nagy, Kim (Tony) Ferguson, and Jennifer (Matt) Walega. His love extended deeply to his grandchildren, David Nagy and Sophia Walega, who brought him immense joy.
He is also survived by his brother, Jim Michaels, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Hurley and Kathleen Michaels; his grandson, Ryan Michael Nagy; his brother, Mike Michaels; and his niece, Erin Michaels.
He dedicated 30 years of his life working at Great Lakes Steel, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. In retirement, he didn't slow down-instead, he embraced the life of an entrepreneur, successfully running a variety of businesses. He also found joy working at Lowes, where he continued to engage with people and serve others, something that always came naturally to him.
But Brian's true foundation was his faith. He didn't like the word "religion," because his relationship with God was far more personal and profound. He described himself as a sinner saved by grace-through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and resurrection from the grave. At the age of 26, he made the life-changing decision to follow Christ, a commitment that shaped every aspect of who he was. For over 27 years, Brian served faithfully with the junior high youth group at Evangel Baptist Church, mentoring and encouraging young people with compassion and conviction.
He lived by the truth found in his favorite Bible verses, Ephesians 2:8–9:
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast."
These verses were not just words to him-they were a promise, a foundation, and a guiding light for how he lived and loved.
The way Brian raised his family was deeply rooted in his faith. He loved his family more than words can express. His love was shown through his presence-cheering at games, planning memorable family vacations, and sharing stories that reflected just how proud he was of each of them. If you knew Brian, you knew his family-because he would tell anyone who would listen just how much they meant to him.
His legacy of love, kindness, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to Evangel Baptist Church -Youth group ministries, to honor Brian's passion of working with his Jr Highers.
Visitation Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 PM at the Evangel Baptist Church, 16994 Telegraph Rd, Taylor, MI 48180. Service will be held Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 5:00 PM at the Evangel Baptist Church, 16994 Telegraph Rd, Taylor, MI 48180. Please share memories and/or leave condolences on Brian's guestbook on his tribute wall.