Michael David Walden

Walden, Michael David Ypsilanti, MI
Michael David Walden, age 72, of Ypsilanti, MI, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, MI. He was born on July 9, 1953 a son of the late Adam Lee and Dorothy Murial-Ann (Craig) Walden Sr. On April 28, 1979 he married Erma Rose McCoy at the Antioch Baptist Church in Ypsilanti. MI and they have shared over 53 years together.
Michael went to Clinton Schools where he thrived as a dedicated wrestler and football player, giving his all on the mats and under the Friday night lights but it was rodeo that truly captured his soul. He lived for the adrenaline of riding bucking horses and bulls as he developed the drive to become a rodeo producer. Michael spent years producing rodeos as the Flying W Rodeo Company. When he wasn't setting up and tearing down arenas or on a pickup horse in the arena, he was guiding so many others down the road to become great cowboys, stock contractors and producers. He was also the author of an MSRA newsletter called "Luck of the Draw" that gave updates on cowboys, cowgirls and rodeos for the Mid States Rodeo Association.
Michael was a carpenter and worked construction most of his life. He spent time as a Journeyman for the Iron Workers Union and always enjoyed building and welding even when it wasn't for work. His hobby of building Bar BQ grills and smokers started his joy in cooking for family, friends and events. His Bar BQ became a staple at so many events with the Michigan Elvis Fest being his favorite.
Michael was a family man with many friends. He was a member of the Tecumseh/Clinton men's pool league where he was able to compete and cook. He enjoyed car shows with his boys, family gatherings and camping with his children and grandchildren. Riding the trails at the family farm and down the creek with the kids was his favorite place to be.
Along with his wife, Erma, Michael is survived by his children, Michael Cory (Sheryl) Walden, Stacy Brook Walden, Shawn Bodie (Jaclyn Kinser) Walden and Jodie Leah Walden; 4 siblings, Roger (Barb) Walden, Rhonda Kobus, Dennis (Cherie Carley) Walden and Adam (Margie) Walden; 5 grandchildren, Miles, Jack and Victoria Walden, Alayna Black and Mason Walden; and also several nieces, nephews and cousins. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, Kevin Walden.
A service and celebration of life for Michael will take place on Friday, November 21st at the Clinton Baptist Church located at 11555 Tecumseh-Clinton Hwy. Clinton, MI 49236 the service will be at 4pm followed by the celebration of life with dinner.