Michael Lyle Wilson

Dr. Michael Lyle Wilson, 74, entered his eternal resting place in the loving care of his family on August 27, 2024, following a several-year battle with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Born on January 28, 1950, in Manistique, MI, to Dr. Lyle Wilson and Emma Wilson (Metts), Mike enjoyed an upbringing surrounded by the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Much of his childhood was spent actively involved in Boy Scouts and competing in youth sports. Being a Scout kept Mike engaged in nature, and some of his fondest memories were spent at Boy Scout Jamborees in New Mexico, and Mike also gave back to his community in adulthood when he served as a Scout Master for local Boy Scout Troops.
After graduating from Manistique High School in 1968, Mike enrolled at Northern Michigan University to study biology on a pre-optometric track. While success at school was hard fought, Mike always attributed his scholarly competence to his caring, supportive high school teachers who pushed him to be the dedicated man he was. Once he graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry (1974), Mike fulfilled his dream of becoming a second-generation optometrist, and during his time spent learning in Chicago, Mike also gained some of his very best friends who supported him through all stages of life.
Throughout his nearly 45-year career as an optometrist in Manistique, Mike was credited with being a compassionate, patient-centered doctor who treated generations of patients with dignity and kindness. Dr. Wilson thoroughly enjoyed his profession and made lasting impressions with all he cared for. Mike truly never believed he worked a day in his life because he loved what he did so much. When he was not found at the office, Mike spent time with his beloved wife Peggy (Braun) and daughters Abby, Jenna, Emily, and Kali. He taught his children how to play basketball and golf, and he could be seen in the stands at every sporting event and activity his kids participated in. Cooking and entertaining family and friends was a highlight for Mike, and he proudly donned an apron and a hand towel over his shoulder while perfecting and attempting new recipes.
An avid outdoorsman, Mike looked forward to deer season spent with his friends at camp, bird hunting pheasant around the U.P., duck hunting adventures in North Dakota, walleye and salmon fishing, and ice fishing excursions in Minnesota. Summertime meant trips to Camp 7 with his family, shooting with his buddies at the gun club, rounds of golf at Indian Lake, and daily walks on the boardwalk and in the 'back 40.' When winter rolled around, Mike dutifully fulfilled his President role at the Schoolcraft Snowmobile Association and helped to ensure that trails were maintained, groomed, and in optimal condition for locals and tourists. Mike loved skiing, and he participated in the cross-country Noquemanon Ski Marathon many times, and he also experienced several adventures downhill skiing in Europe and in the Rocky Mountains.
Mike is survived by his wife of 36 years, Peggy; daughters, Abby (David) Schultz, Jenna (Joseph) Fournier, Emily (Logan) Peterson, and Kali (Josh) Curran; sister, Kathy Emens and nephew, Michael Emens. Furthermore, Mike is survived by his grandchildren Lucas, Nathaniel, Lila, River, Seamus, Tatum, Collins, Sutton, Foster, Lowen, Leo, and a twelfth on the way. Mike was preceded in death by his parents (Lyle and Emma Wilson).
At Mike's request, no funeral services will be held. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Schoolcraft Memorial Homecare & Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.