Michael A. Rhodabarger

Michael A. Rhodabarger, PhD
Bay City, Michigan
Our devoted husband, father, Papa, son, brother, and cherished friend has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Mike passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 20, 2025, with his family at his side. He was born on January 13, 1970, in Traverse City, Michigan, to Robert L. and Sharon K. (Alexander) Rhodabarger, Mike grew up with a deep love for family, faith, and music.
A 1988 graduate of Pymatuning Valley High School in Andover, Ohio, Mike's journey through life was nothing short of extraordinary. As a talented drummer, he was the rhythmic heartbeat of bands such as Kings Ransom and Dissident-headbanging alongside the best of them with his signature long hair and electric energy. Yet, beyond music, his true passion lay in guiding and uplifting others.
Mike pursued his calling through education, earning a bachelor's degree in Pastoral Ministry from Nazarene Bible College, a master's degree in Christian Counseling from Northwest Nazarene University, and ultimately, a doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Tennessee Temple University. His career as a pastor spanned multiple communities, beginning in Ashtabula, Ohio, before moving to Saginaw, Michigan, then Lowell, Michigan, Richmond, Indiana, and finally Bay City, where he served as the Senior Pastor of Bay City First Church of the Nazarene. Through each chapter, his heart remained steadfast in service and spiritual leadership.
Never content to simply lead-Mike sought to empower others. His passion for helping people reach their potential led him to establish Execuspect, a leadership development company focused on counseling and productivity enhancement. He was also the proud author of three books, sharing his wisdom and insights with the world.
Mike's impact extended beyond his work. He was a past member of the Bay City, Saginaw, Midland, and Flint Chamber of Commerce. He found joy in simple pleasures-savoring meals at his favorite restaurant, Chipotle, golfing, eating chicken wings, watching his favorite TV show Blue Bloods on Fridays and football on Sundays, as well as camping with his family. Above all, he treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren, always wishing there were more hours in the day to be with them.
Mike's legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and love. Though words may never fully capture the depth of his influence, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife Kelly R. (Steigerwald), which he married November 21, 1992, their children: Kasey (Courtney) Rhodabarger, Kelsey (Jeremy) Grekowicz, and Cole (Eliana) Rhodabarger, grandchildren: Corbyn, Kayson, Paetyn, and future grandchildren to come, his parents Robert and Sharon and brother Donald "Donny" (Launa) Rhodabarger, furry companion Remi and grand dogs: Mia, Meeka, Paisley, Trigger and Josie. Mike was predeceased by his grandparents William and Alice Rhodabarger and William L. and Violet M. Alexander.
The Funeral Service for Mike will be held Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Saginaw Valley Church of the Nazarene, 1815 Tittabawassee Road, Saginaw, MI 48604. Pastor and family friend Dwight Kingsbury will preside. Family and friends will gather at Squires Funeral Home, 211 N. Henry Street, Bay City, MI 48706 on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 2:00 to 8:00 PM and again at church on Saturday after 10:00 AM. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to "Family Wishes" in care of Kelly Rhodabarger. You are welcome to share stories, photos, share your support or extend your sympathies on Mike's obituary Tribute Wall for the family to reflect on during this very difficult time in their lives. squiresfuneralhome.com