Michael Richard DeYoung

Michael Richard DeYoung

January 12, 1948 – December 13, 2025

Michael Richard DeYoung, a lifelong resident of the Kalamazoo area known for his quick wit and creative spirit, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the age of 77.

Born in Kalamazoo on January 12, 1948, to Donald and Jeannette DeYoung, Mike was a true son of West Michigan. Throughout his life, he called Kalamazoo, Vicksburg, and Scotts home. He was the last of his immediate family, preceded in death by his parents and his three siblings: John, Patricia (Farrer), and Marilyn (Edgerton).

Mike’s career reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and the local community. He spent years working with the iconic Capitol Theatre and State Theatre and later brought his talents to Central Furniture and Paw Paw Upholstery.

Those who knew Mike knew a man of diverse passions. He found peace in the dirt of his gardens and pride in the sleek lines of a classic muscle car. He was equally at home in the kitchen cooking a meal or lost in the magic of a classic Hollywood musical. Mike had a profound love for animals, especially cats, and found great joy in his "grand-animals."

Above all, Mike was a performer at heart. He loved to make people laugh, a gift he shared generously with friends, family, and strangers alike until the very end of his life.

Mike is survived by his son, Benjamin Michael DeYoung (and partner Jill Terwilliger). While he didn't have human grandchildren, he was a devoted grandfather to his grand-puppies, Butterscotch and Maggie, and his grand-kitty, Riley Greene. He remained a friend to his former spouse, Beth DeYoung, whom he married in 1973.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Mike’s life and share a few final laughs will be held on: Sunday, December 28, 2025 from 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM at the Nazareth Center, 2929 Nazareth Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49048

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mike’s honor to Outfront Kalamazoo, an organization dedicated to creating a just and inclusive community: outfrontkzoo.org

While visiting Mike’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane in Portage, MI 49002, (269 344-5600).