Michael Wyllys

Michael Wyllys, a “heck of a nice guy” gave up his earthly body on December 27, 2021, age 72, passed away peacefully, and on his own terms, too soon for those who knew him well.

Michael spent his “working” years at Ford Automotive driving hi-lo, and working receiving. He had lots of stories to tell – probably only half of them were true! But he did tell lots of colorful stories of other things he did (again, probably only half were true) with the rest of his “work” time.

After he retired and his “paid” work life was completed, Michael chose to volunteer. Michael loved giving of himself. He was the most generous man with a heart of gold.  He loved Habitat for Humanity and everything it stood for.  He loved working in the ReStore, working with volunteers, donors and shoppers. He loved that Habitat could do more of its mission if he helped the ReStore with his time and talents. There were so many things he fixed (and he could fix just about anything!), improved, and simply cleaned to make a better sale so more families could be helped through the Habitat mission.

Many times Michael would be at a restaurant alone and see a young family, an older couple, or someone who just looked like they could use a helping hand, so he paid for their meal and snuck out of the restaurant so no one would know. He was just that kind of a guy. He also loved animals and Florida and floating in a pool!

Michael’s sense of humor was unlike anyone else’s. His clever wit meant that we never knew what was going to come out of his mouth next. And he was never afraid to make himself the butt of a joke, or to do something utterly silly to get a laugh. He also used laughter as a way to deal with his cancer and health conditions. He would often ask his oncologist if it was okay to buy new underwear because he wanted to live long enough to wear them!

Michael is survived by his best friend, L Quinn Lincoln-Keon, who cared for him during his long periods of fighting cancer, medical treatments and end-of-life. He is also survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Katie Wyllys.

Memorial contributions can be made to Clinton-Gratiot Habitat for Humanity P.O. Box 313 St Johns, MI  48879. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com.  The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, Michigan.