Michael Joseph Elledge

Michael Joseph Elledge, born July 29,1984, left this world on November 14, 2025, surrounded by his mother and eldest sister. He was 41 years old. Michael filled his life, and the lives of those around him, with kindness, curiosity, and a sharp sense of humor that will be remembered.

He is survived by his loving mother, Norene Elledge; his sisters, Tanya Marie Jensen and Beth Michelle Elledge; and his beloved nieces, Emma Louise Jensen, Anna Selene Jensen and Linnea Elise Ebel. To his nieces, he was more than just "Uncle Mike." He was their storyteller, their builder of Legos, their endless source of jokes and trivia, and the person who always had time to listen.

Mike had a quiet way of paying attention to the world, though he sometimes complained loudly about it. He studied psychology because he wanted to understand people; from acts of compassion to moments of cruelty, and how they find their way through life. He loved movies, video games, and books, especially science-fiction and rich histories, and could talk for hours about something that caught his interest.

Though born with an autoimmune disease and dependent on oxygen, Mike never let that define him. Instead, he defined himself through laughter, compassion, honesty, and a deep need to learn. He spent time helping elementary school children with reading and math and believed, wholeheartedly, that a few kind words and encouragement could change how a child saw themselves. Those simple acts of care brought him real joy.

He also cared deeply about the world and worried about its future, but his answer was always the same: he hoped we would all choose kindness first. Mike was a lifelong supporter of PBS, drawn to its spirit of learning and wonder. One moment he'd be quoting something from a history documentary, then rambling about a scientific discovery, and then he'd be laughing along with a kid's show.

In his memory, the family asks that donations be made to Detroit PBS or your local PBS station, directed toward children's programming, science, or history initiatives.

Mike's life is a reminder that true strength isn't measured by health or circumstance but by the love and curiosity we bring into each day. He will be missed beyond words and remembered with deep affection by everyone lucky enough to have known him.

Share memories with the family at their "On Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com.