Michael August Sabbe

Michael Sabbe was born in 1941 in Eernegem, Belgium to Martha and George Sabbe. Mike immigrated to the United States on the Queen Mary at the age of 7. Mike grew up in the solid Belgian community of Mishawaka, Indiana, where he graduated in 1959 from St. Joseph High School. He graduated from Tri-State (Trine) University in 1964 and earned an MBA from Central Michigan University in 1981. In 1972, he relocated his family to Farmington Hills, Michigan, where he laid permanent roots.
Mike was perfectly cast as a salesman and had a successful 30 + year career with Midland-Ross, Bendix, Allied-Signal, and Material Sciences Corporation. Many of his colleagues lovingly referred to him as "The Legend" as he effortlessly forged enduring connections and friendships with all. Mike was known for his kindness, loyalty, and exquisite sense of humor. He truly appreciated and cherished the friendships he maintained with his colleagues in the automotive industry, and his family is forever thankful for their companionship to him throughout the years.
A devoted and proud father of four daughters, Mike was the quintessential "Girl Dad" before that was even a thing. He was often reminded of how lucky he was - by them. He somehow managed to make each of them feel like they were his favorite and was quick with encouragement and praise. He was always available to play basketball on the driveway or lend somebody a hand, and he could fix anything. He masterfully managed to be present in the moment, whether big or small. He adored the four sons-in-law he gained through marriage and truly thought of them as his own. He mastered the role of Papa Mike and showered his six grandchildren with warmth and knowledge and love.
Mike was an avid golfer, and the years he spent as a member at Dearborn Country Club were some of his finest. He enjoyed volunteering at numerous golf outings, including the Van Patrick Memorial and the Ford TPC Senior Championship. He loved Notre Dame football, a great steak, a good book, and a cold beer. He was also genuinely patriotic and cared deeply for his country. Mike loyally supported his wife Patricia as she battled Alzheimer's for many years while simultaneously fighting his own brave battle with diabetes. Never once did he exhibit negativity, self-pity, or regret to anyone. He maintained his merry twinkle and quick wit up to his last days.
Mike is survived by his four adoring daughters and their husbands, Lisa (Mark) Prondzinski of Tega Cay, SC, Cheryl (Robert) Haley of Farmington Hills, Angela (Steve) Ellis of Northville, and Trish (Jay) Keranen of Bloomfield Hills. He is also survived by his six loving grandchildren: Leila Haley, Jack Ellis (fiancée Adriana), Marc Ellis, Charlie Keranen, Ava Keranen, and Lukas Prondzinski, and dear siblings Marie Smith and Don Sabbe, five nephews and one niece. Preceding Mike in death was his beloved wife of 56 years, Patricia (2019), parents George and Martha, and older brother Joseph Sabbe (2023).
His family would like to thank the caring staff and many special friends he made at Novi Lakes Health Campus.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 12, 2024, 11 am (gathering beginning at 10:30 am), at Our Lady of Victor Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Dr., Northville.
Donations in his memory may be directed towards St. Bavo's Catholic Church (Mishawaka, IN), Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church (Northville, MI), and the American Diabetes Association.