Michael L. Janowitz

Michael Lee Janowitz of Willowick, better known to most as Mike, passed away on November 21, 2025 at the age of 52. Born in Cleveland on January 5, 1973 to Ralph and Sue (née Elconin) Janowicz, he was raised in Richmond Heights by Sue alongside his grandparents, Victor and Rosella. Despite the odds stacked against him at a young age with his diagnosis of Marfan syndrome and a serious heart condition, he overcame them all when he underwent heart surgery and was the successful recipient of one of the first heart valves of its type in the world.
Mike graduated from Richmond Heights High School in 1991 before obtaining his Bachelor of Music at Cleveland State University in 1997. After his graduation, he worked in public school districts all around Northeast Ohio as a band director and music teacher, including Lincoln West High School, Shaker Heights, and Maple Heights. After retiring from teaching, he pursued a career in real estate with Howard Hanna, and later worked as a supervisor at Advance Partners.
In 1998, he married his college sweetheart, Julie Ann (née Johnson), and was welcomed with open arms into her extended family, including her mother, Debra, and grandparents, Edward and Betty Lou. Mike and Julie Ann remained married for over 25 years, and even after their divorce, they remained good friends. They had two children, Michael and Victoria; one of Mike's wishes was to see them both grow into independent adulthood, which he did.
He then began a relationship with Donica, and although their future together was cut short, their relationship was full of love. He was known and loved by her extended family and friends.
Mike was a prolific drummer in the Cleveland music scene, playing for numerous local orchestras, jazz, blues, and rock bands, such as the Cleveland Philharmonic Orchestra, Mr. Downchild, Blue Lunch, Gateway Band, Mixx Tape (formerly Tres Cervezas), and You're Among Friends. As a member of Blue Lunch, he even played at the 2005 presidential inauguration. He was also involved with numerous music projects and performances throughout Cleveland, including serving as the drummer for Trinity Cathedral's Mostly Jazz Mass for fifteen years. Music was his life's work and guiding passion, and the beat of his drum lives on in the beat of the hearts of the countless people his gentleness, laughter, and music touched.
A Funeral Service will be on Saturday January 10, 2026 at 11 AM at Brickman Bros. Funeral Home, 37433 Euclid Ave. in Willoughby, where the family will receive friends on Friday January 9, 2026 from 4-7 PM. Committal Service will take place at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon following the service.