Mike Wall

Michael Joseph Wall, a dedicated advocate for medical education, care and research, who was a beloved resident of Lake Victoria, near Laingsburg, Michigan, died on October 15, 2025, very unexpectedly, at the age of 75.
Mike was born on January 27, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, the youngest of two sons, born to Jack and Margaret (Noe) Wall. Big brother Curt still lives in Virginia where his son, Thomas, who is a physician and wife, Kathleen a RN. He grew up in Michigan and graduated from Constantine High School in 1968, and over the years enjoyed organizing several class reunions. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University in 1974, setting the stage for a meaningful career in advancement within academic medical institutions.
Throughout his career, Mike championed the role of philanthropy in driving progress in medical research and education. He began his career with The Muscular Dystrophy Association, doing on- air promotions for Jerry's Kids and attending summer camps for patients. MDA is now at MSU's Clinical Center. His leadership helped shape advancements at several leading academic medical centers, and he leaves behind a legacy of impact that will continue to benefit future generations.
After meeting on a blind date in early 1969, Mike married Elaine Savery from Three Rivers, in October 1973, and together they raised two sons, Eric and Christopher. He looked forward to spending more time with Elaine in retirement, although "retired" never meant slowing down for Mike. An avid outdoorsman, Mike was a passionate deer and bird hunter and longtime supporter of Ducks Unlimited. He was active in the Boy Scouts with his sons and went camping frequently. Mike was an avid cook, smoker and griller. Mike was also an avid Chicago team lover, whether it be the Cubs, the Bears, Black Hawks, et al. Mike served on the Lake Victoria Lake and Township Boards and was a member of a men's golf group that played all over Michigan. He worked hard, gave generously and never stopped doing the things that mattered most to him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In Honor of Mike Wall
Those wishing to honor Mike's memory are invited to support the medical research he so passionately believed in. Contributions may be made to one or more of the following institutions where Mike played a vital leadership role:
You are also invited to share stories and have appetizers and a toast to Mike of bourbon, scotch or red wine at his favorite restaurant, Dusty's Cellar and Wine Bar, in Okemos, Michigan on Wed, October 29, 2025 from 5 to 7 pm. Mike was cremated. There will be no service.
University of Illinois College of Medicine
Memorials to support research may be made at www.givecampus.com.
(In the gift designation box, type or select "UIC College of Medicine Research")
KU Endowment for the KU Cancer Center
Contributions may be mailed to KU Endowment, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Mail Stop 3012, Kansas City, KS 66160, or made online at www.kuendowment.org/give.
(Please indicate that the gift is in memory of Mike Wall.)
Ohio State University Advancement for Colleges of Medicine, Dentistry and/or WOSU Public TV Radio
(Please indicate that the gift is in memory of Mike Wall.) 14 East 15th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 or https//advancement.osu.edu
Michigan State University – College of Human Medicine
The CHM Research Rescue Fund will help support funding to Spartan researchers dedicated to understanding the world's most pressing health issues. During these uncertain times, our most important research is at risk. A gift to this fund can help bridge funding for the groundbreaking work happening at the College of Human Medicine. Gifts may be made online at gift.msu.edu under "Areas to Support: CHM Research Rescue Fund."