Obituary of Michael Para

Michael John Para, Jr. of Canadian Lakes, loving husband, Dad and Grandpa, passed away peacefully with family by his side on August 25, 2020. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at 11:00 AM at St. Michael Catholic Church, Remus, with Father Tom Boufford as Celebrant.  Mike will be laid to rest at the St. Michael Columbarium immediately following Mass.

Mike was born on February 19, 1937 in Detroit, MI, the son of Michael J. Para, Sr. and Helen (Glodek) Para.  On October 17, 1959 he married the love of his life, Barbara  “Bunny” (Rataj) at Our Lady Queen of Apostle Catholic Church in Hamtramck, MI. 

Mike was a gentle, kind, generous, hard working, honest and caring man. He enjoyed many wonderful vacations and celebrations with his wife, three daughters, sons-in-law, three adored grandchildren, and grand-dog, Lilly. He loved golfing, fishing, his Pontoon, taking walks, playing Pinochle with friends and spending time with his favorite people. Living in Canadian Lakes was a dream come true for Mike, and his “Hole in One” at the Royal Golf Course was an especially proud moment for him. He is now free from the grip of Alzheimer’s and his blue eyes are smiling, once again!

Mike was a loving husband to his wife of almost 61 years, Barbara; caring father to their three daughters, Michelle Para, Renee (Doug) Pawloske, and Lydia (Sean) O’Hagan; best grandpa ever to Cassidy, Aidan, and Michael and reliable brother to Andy Para, Dolores Taylor, and Arlene Frederick, and was the “best guy to hang out with” to numerous friends. Mike’s family will miss him with all of their heart and soul.  

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, John and Philip Para, and Eddie Wetoszke; sisters, Stella Marentette and Caroline Kerbelis.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for all the care and kindness shown by Laura W. and the amazing staff at Royal View Assisted Living.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to The Alzheimer’s Association.