Michael Joseph Bondra

BONDRA, Michael Joseph.

On October 23, 2025, at age 42 and just one month after being diagnosed with cancer, Michael Joseph Bondra lost his hard-fought, brutal battle against pain and suffering.

Mike was exceptionally gifted at everything he did in life and brought determination and stubbornness to every challenge. He loved spending his time writing music, playing guitar, riding bikes, making Detroit-style pizza, playing video games, traveling, and brewing beer. He loved dogs, tortoises, roller coasters, trains, and sports. And he was a supporter of public transportation, human rights, and urbanism.

Mike was full of life, and his life was full of community. When Mike made friends, they were lifelong companions. He was loyal and dependable, with a wit that was as quick to make you laugh as it was to make you think. He challenged those around him to be the best versions of themselves, but never in a way that made you feel judged. He held his beliefs strongly-perhaps most of all, his belief in the importance of sticking up for those who can't always stick up for themselves.

He was a proud alumnus of the University of Michigan, where he earned undergraduate and graduate degrees. Professionally, he was a skilled software engineer and web developer, an empathetic people leader and a creative problem solver who always used his talents to advocate for, inspire, and elevate others.

Mike was a patient, devoted dog dad to his rescue, Stella, and was fiercely loyal to his fiancée and life partner of 16+ years, Vanessa. He is also survived by his parents (Larry, Cindy), sister (Christina/Kyle Grimm), niece (Layla), nephew (Lincoln) and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends-each of whom can tell you a story about the myriad ways he impacted their lives.

Visitation Friday 3-8pm at Wujek - Calcaterra & Sons Inc., (Shelby) 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd. Instate Saturday from 9:30am until time of 10am Mass at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 54045 Schoenherr Rd, Shelby Township, MI 48315. Please share memories with the family at their "On - Line Guestbook" at WujekCalcaterra.com