Michael Dominic Tornow

Michael Dominic Tornow, 76, of Fife Lake, Michigan passed away peacefully at home after a life marked by service and dedication to his family and community. He was born on August 28, 1949, in Adrian, Michigan.

The oldest of five in a military family, Mike was an independent man who had many adventures. He was proud of his ability to easily connect with other people, and he made many friends around the world.

Mike served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. His military service included time on the ground in Vietnam, as well as duty aboard the USS America, where he supported blue-water operations throughout the conflict.

In his adult life, Mike devoted many years to coaching youth swimming. He led the Cruisers Swim Team, based at the Kaliseum in Kalkaska, MI, where he taught young athletes the skills and discipline required to become competitive swimmers.

Mike was also active in local civic affairs. He served on the Fife Lake Village Council and was a member of the Downtown Development Association, contributing to community planning and local improvement efforts. He was a longtime member of the American Legion in Fife Lake.

Michael is survived by his three daughters, Amelia (Josh) Schuring, Bridget Tornow, and Camille (Andrew) VanSolkema; by his grandchildren, Anja, Roman, and Amari, who brought him great pride; and by his siblings, Donn Tornow, Susan (Ed) Clegg, Mariana (Chris) Sanford, and John (NanHe) Tornow. He's preceded in death by his parents, Don and Elizabeth ("Betty") Tornow.

Mike was an artist and a philosophical thinker. He loved nature and the peaceful beauty found by living a slow and simple life. He died gently in the town he loved, in the house he loved, listening to his records, holding the hands of his family. His family's love is his greatest legacy.

A memorial will be held for Michael at the Fife Lake American Legion on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 A.M.