Born on November 6, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mike built a life marked by dedication to education, professional service, writing, faith, and family. He attended St. Francis Seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio, and completed undergraduate studies at Xavier University. He later earned a Master’s in Education from Xavier University and a Master of Arts degree from the University of Dayton.
Mike devoted much of his professional life to a distinguished career with the University of Michigan Health System. Alongside that work, he pursued inspirational and motivational writing and speaking for more than forty years. Through that calling, he shared reflections shaped by his faith in God, his experience, and his sense of humor, offering guidance that encouraged and empowered those who heard him.
He was the author of “The Power of Choice: You Can Do It—Yes, You Can!” and “Come to Me”, both published in 2007. Mike was also a prolific poet whose work appeared in several anthologies, including Songs of Honour by Noble House. His poetry received recognition from the International Society of Poets, where he was identified as a Distinguished Member. Mike was also known for his annual Christmas poem, which was a much-anticipated feature of the holiday season among recipients.
Faith was a defining feature of Mike’s life. He had a notable ability to join faith, wisdom, humor, and lived experience in a way that made his words memorable and meaningful. That same spirit was evident in the many parts of life Mike enjoyed most. He was known for his passion for the University of Michigan and Hope College athletics, wealth of sports knowledge and trivia, and his keen wit and sense of humor. Mike’s love of family and friends, together with the warmth and wit he brought to everyday life, remained among the gifts he shared most freely.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Kremm; his mother, Rosemary “Rosie” (Riese) Kremm; his older brother, Robert “Bob”; his younger brother, Gregory “Greg”; and two brothers (Edward and Fred) who died in childhood.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Dana; daughter, Carolyn; brother, Ronald “Ron”; sister, Celia “Cindy”; grandsons, Joe and Ben; nephews, Nick, Tony, and Doug; and a host of extended family and loving friends.
Mike will be remembered for a life that joined professional accomplishment, creative expression, deep faith, humor, and enduring love for those around him. His words, his example, and the encouragement he offered will remain part of the legacy he leaves behind.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on October 15, 2026, at Lakeshore Memorial Services at 11939 James Street, Holland, MI, 49424. Visitation will open at 10:30 am, followed by a funeral service at 11:30 am. A time for food and fellowship will follow the service. Private family burial will occur at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages supporters to donate to a charity of their choice in honor of Mike’s love and generosity toward all people.
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