Michael Roessler

Michael Roessler, born September 22, 1947, crossed the river on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Mike grew up in South Bend, Indiana, where he attended John Adams High School, then went on to the University of Michigan, where he earned a B.A. in history. Mike remained a die-hard Michigan fan for the rest of his life. After graduating from Michigan, he crossed the country to Stanford University where he earned an MA in American history.
In California, Mike met the love of his life, Mary, and they married on March 11, 1972. After they married, they moved back to the Midwest to be near family, and Mike secured a teaching job at Portland Middle School. While there, he was known as a hardworking and creative teacher and was respected by his colleagues, students and parents alike.
Mike and Mary’s beloved daughter Kate was born January 4, 1976. She was an outstanding student and athlete and taught elementary school several years in Dexter, Michigan. Kate predeceased Mike on October 27, 2020.
Mike went on to earn a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction at Michigan State University. After retiring from PMS, Mike fulfilled a dream by becoming an Associate Professor at Albion College, where he taught a wide variety of education courses.
During most of his teaching career, Mike played pickup basketball. Thanks to his Saturday morning group, he was able to do so till he was 71. In his retirement, he was introduced to the game of pickleball and tackled it along with fitness classes at Alive in Charlotte, enjoying both the exercise and camaraderie.
In 2008 Mike was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which he fought off for 16 years.
In his final days, Mike commented often that he had lived a wonderful life, was grateful for the time he had on this earth and was at peace. He was predeceased by his sister Cindy and is survived by his wife, his son-in-law James Boynton, and his beloved grandchildren Lola, Ruby and Gus. His life will be celebrated with family and friends at his and Mary’s cottage at Sister Lakes, Michigan. Donations can be made in his name to the Homeless Angels of Lansing. You are invited to view photos of Mike at the website of Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.