Michael Kenneth "Ken" Michalak

Michael Kenneth "Ken" Michalak, beloved son, husband, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on April 11, 2025, at the age of 23. Though his time on this earth was far too short, his impact was immeasurable, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Born on May 14, 2001, in Commerce Township, Michigan, Michael was a radiant spirit from the very beginning. He was the cherished son of Gerard and Christine Michalak and one of three dearly loved sons in the Michalak family. From a young age, Michael exhibited a boundless curiosity and a deep passion for learning, music, and technology-interests that would shape the remarkable man he would become.
Michael graduated from Lakeland High School in 2019, where he made lasting impressions as a talented member of the marching band, a proud participant in the shotgun club, and the visionary founder of the Lakeland High School Computer Club. His academic excellence earned him national honors, and his bright intellect and dedication inspired those around him. He was also a proud Eagle Scout, a distinction that reflected his dedication, leadership, and commitment to service.
He went on to pursue his love of technology at Michigan State University, where he graduated in 2022 with a degree in Computer Science. It was there that he met his soulmate, Han Nguyen, while they were both serving as teaching assistants. Their connection was immediate, and their love deep and enduring. During his college years, Michael "Ken" was a dedicated member of the Multicultural Living Experience (MRULE), a community that shaped his worldview and introduced him to lifelong friends, including his best friend from China. After graduation, Michael and Han moved to Seattle, Washington, to begin their careers at Amazon headquarters, embracing new challenges and building a beautiful life together.
Michael was a man of many talents and passions. He was an accomplished musician who found joy in listening to, writing, and composing his own music. A gifted linguist, he was fluent in Spanish and endlessly fascinated by languages, eagerly studying Japanese and Chinese in his spare time. He had a vibrant sense of play-whether dominating family games of Yahtzee and Monopoly, diving into immersive video games, or engaging in good-natured battles over Magic: The Gathering, a game he loved and sometimes loved to hate.
An enthusiast of shooting sports and hunting, Michael appreciated the precision and tradition of those pursuits. He was also an adventurous and talented cook, always eager to experiment with new recipes and share delicious meals with the people he cared about.
Above all, Michael Kenneth "Ken" Michalak was defined by his warmth, his curiosity, and his profound love for his family and friends. He was a gentle soul with a kind heart, a brilliant mind, and a smile that lit up every room. His bright blue eyes held both wisdom and wonder, and his presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew him.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Han Nguyen, his loving parents Gerard and Christine Michalak, his brothers Joe Michalak, and Matthew Michalak, his grandmother Cecilia Kendrick, his aunts and uncles Jim Kotas, Terrie Snowden, Michelle & Rich Gavalier, Renee & Leonard Valente, Michael Kendrick, and Kenneth Kendrick, his great aunt Kathy Tyson, his mother and father-in law Thy & Binh Nguyen, and sister-in-law Thanh "Rim" Nguyen; He is also survived by many loving cousins, extended family, and countless friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
He is preceded in passing by his grandparents Leonard & Theresa Michalak, Edwin Kendrick, and Aunt Rose Kotas.
Michael's life, though brief, was full of purpose, laughter, and love. He will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was-a kind, brilliant, and beautiful soul.
Visitation will take place on Monday, April 21 from 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Lynch and Sons Funeral Home in Milford. Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, April 22 at St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows in Milford. Instate, or gathering time, 10:00 AM. Mass at 11:00 AM.