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Ernest “Ernie” Michel, age 77, of Lum, Michigan died Monday, February 1, 2021 at his home. Ernest Wade Michel was born July 15, 1943 in Almont, MI. He is the son of the late Arnold and the late Dena (Carpenter) Michel. Ernie grew up and lived most of his life in the Lum, MI area. He was a graduate of Imlay City High School, Class of 1962. Ernie proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1962 until 1965. He remained in the Army reserves until 1968 and the United States Ready Reserves from 1974 – 1977. Ernie married Margo Lynne McWethy on October 15, 1966 in Midland, Michigan.
He was employed as a high-low driver for Buick Motors for 32-1/2 years before retiring. After his retirement from Buick, Ernie was employed as a high-low driver for periods of time at: Toyo Seating, Champion Bus, and ZF Corporation.
Ernie was a member of the Imlay City American Legion Post 135, a Boy Scout Leader and Commissioner. During high school, Ernie was a member of the Lapeer Explorers Club. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing. Ernie was also a blood donor, giving over 100 gallons on blood during his lifetime. He helped with many Imlay City Chamber of Commerce and American Legion fund raisers.
He is survived by: his wife: Margo Michel of Lum, MI; his daughter: Heidi (Gary) Toles of Lapeer, MI; three sons: Paul (Jill) Michel of Lapeer, MI, Major John (Alexandra) Michel of Honolulu, HI, and Daniel (Annie Jose) Michel of Brown City, MI; his sister: Judy (Dave) Stettler of Traverse City, MI; and his brother: Donald (Julie) Michel of Clawson, MI. He is also survived by: 13 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Ernie was preceded in death by: his parents: Arnold & Dena Michel; and his brother: Larry Michel.
A Veterans’ Salute and Memorial Graveside service for Margo and Ernie will be held 1:00 pm, Saturday, August 7, 2021 at Arcadia Township Cemetery, 4800 Lum Rd., Lum, MI. The family will be available at the cemetery prior to these services and a gathering for Celebration of Life will occur at the conclusion of these services. Please be sure to sign our on-line register book at muirbrothersfh.com to share your memories and condolences with the Michel family.
Arrangements were entrusted to Muir Brothers Funeral Home of Imlay City, 225 N. Main Street, Imlay City, MI. Please be sure to sign our on-line register at muirbrothersfh.com to share condolences and memories with the Michel family.
20 Entries
Benny Prill
February 11, 2021
Our sincere condolences to Margo & your family. Ernie and I met when we were stationed overseas in the United States Army. One day on post I checked out an accordion to play in a recreational room. As I was playing, Ernie walked in with a stand up bass. That bass was almost as tall as Ernie. We played music, had fun, and got to know each other. Although we were in different companies, we still got to see each other from time to time even though our schedules were always different. I completed my time in the Army in January of 1966. In the fall of 1967, I got married & invited Ernie to the wedding reception. He made my day, showed up, and even helped the bartenders. Over the years, I played a lot of polka dances & festivals. If the job was near where Ernie & Margo lived, they always showed up. Ernie & I always had an emotional meeting, but the tears were happy ones. Someday we will meet again.
Heidi Toles
February 10, 2021
I will always love you Daddy! Rest high on that Mountain. Till we see each other again.

Heidi Toles
February 10, 2021
Sharry Mosher
February 4, 2021
My heart, love, hugs and continued prayers are with this amazing family in the loss of Ernie! I am sure Pastor Don was there to greet Ernie with open arms & a big hug, as always. ;) I will sure miss Ernie's warm greetings that he always gave.
Art White
February 4, 2021
I was in the boy scouts with Ernie, troop 202. He was a nice man, and I enjoyed talking with him. RIP Ernie.
Karl and Sandy Iloncai
February 4, 2021
Longtime friend and classmate.
Rest In Peace.
Karl and Sandy Iloncai
Don Michel
February 3, 2021
Best brother ever
Fran & Bill Aitken
February 2, 2021
Erine you were a great man
I'll remember you and miss you always
Jeanette Cook
February 2, 2021
So sorry for your lost, your in my prayers..
Eric and Deborah Vaubel
February 2, 2021
May the gentle winds of time comfort your family's spirit and strengthen your loving memories of Ernie. He was an amazing man and will always hold a special place in our family's hearts.

Imlay City Schools Alumni Association
February 2, 2021
Ernest “Ernie” Michel is a graduate of Imlay City High School, Class of 1962. The Imlay City Schools Alumni Association family offers our sympathy to the Michel family. Rest in peace Alumni and Veteran
Kip Reaves
February 2, 2021
So sorry to hear this. I've known Ernie for may years in the Lum area. Good guy. My condolences to Margo and the family. Rest in peace friend and Veteran,
Doris Johnson ( Meier )
February 2, 2021
Love you all
Doris Johnson
February 2, 2021
My heart goes out to all of you. This man and his whole family have been a very big part of my life he will be greatly missed rest in peace Erie love you all and sorry for the loss
Love Doris (Meier) Mike Johnson and Family
Elaine Metzger
February 2, 2021
Sending sincerest sympathy, prayers, love, and hugs.
Robert Schlaud
February 2, 2021
He is truly going to be missed , sorry for family's loss, He was a great man.
Dianna Morningstar
February 2, 2021
Sorry to hear your loss of Ernie!!
Cindy Tomaschko
February 2, 2021
Sorry for your loss Margo and family
Gloria and Jack Dempsey
February 2, 2021
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
April Prothero
February 2, 2021
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Ernie was such a nice person, and I have many fond memories of him coming to visit my parents. His laugh was contagious and he had such a kind and generous heart. God Bless you all.
Showing 1 - 20 of 20 results
Aug
7
1:00 p.m.
Arcadia Township Cemetery
4800 Lum Rd., Lum, MI
Funeral services provided by:
Muir Brothers Funeral Home of Imlay City225 N. Main St., Imlay City, MI 48444