Michael Burson, Sr.

Although he seemed a bit guarded with a thick outer shell, on the inside Michael Burson, Sr. had a heart of gold. He was a no frills type of guy who was no stranger to hard work throughout his entire lifetime. Mike loved a good joke and had great fun sharing his vibrant laughter with those around him. Those who knew him knew they could count on Mike to always tell the truth - even if it was painful. His friends and family are still reeling from his unexpected death, but his memory will remain forever near and dear to their hearts.

The 1950s were a vibrant time in American history when the cultural fabric of our nation was forever transformed. Televisions were making their way into America’s family rooms in record numbers while legends like Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis were becoming household names. The people of the fifties loved sports, and more people participated in sports as a leisure activity than ever before. Amidst this unprecedented time there was great anticipation for one bustling family from Schoolcraft, Michigan, as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby. Their wait was over on February 19, 1950, when they welcomed the healthy baby boy they named Michael into their hearts and home. He was one of the middle of eight children born to his parents, Max and Anna (Nichols) Burson, and he was raised in the family home in Schoolcraft alongside his siblings, Ron, Theresa, Steve, Dave, Jeff, and Vicki. Mike attended local schools and enjoyed playing on the basketball team in high school. He was quite an athlete, too, as he was the second highest scorer, which earned him the record that may still be standing today.

After graduating in 1968 Mike went to work for Schoolcraft Farm Service. Through the years he worked his way up to assistant office manager. After leaving Schoolcraft Farm Service, Mike accepted a new job at Harding’s Friendly Market where he had been a stocker for the past four years.

While he was busy establishing his career Mike married and was blessed to become the father of three wonderful children: Michael Jr, Candace, and Billy. Although the marriage later ended in divorce, his relationship with two of his children remained close.

Throughout his life Mike was a man of many interests. He enjoyed golfing, and was a member of the USGA. He also liked bowling and was on several leagues. Fishing was another favorite activity, and for many years he took an annual fishing trip up into Canada. Although he had no grandchildren of his own, Mike was overjoyed to be a grandpa figure to both Sara and Elijah. He was always up for a good time, and was a regular at Gallagher’s on Stadium Drive where he was part of their beer society.

There were so many things to love about Mike. He was an honest man who would always tell you like he saw it. In fact, Mike told the truth straight and hard, never sugar coating anything. Mike was a joker who loved to get others going, but he was also a good friend. He was described as a peanut M&M as he had a hard shell, but a soft inside, and a nut in the center because he was difficult to get to know initially. Yet, was kind and gentle once you moved passed his rather macho exterior.

With the time he was given, Michael Burson, Sr. made the most of each new day he was given; impacting the lives of those around him in a significant way in the process. He was a man’s man who took everything in stride, even when the road before him was a tough one. Mike was a loving father, and a loyal friend who leaves behind a colorful tapestry of memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Michael A. Burson, Sr. of Kalamazoo died at his home on Thursday, May 24, 2012. Mike’s family includes his children, Michael (Mimi) Burson, Jr., Candace (Paul) Graham, and Billy (Donna) Burson; mother, Anna Burson; brothers, Steve (Linda) Burson, Dave (Linda) Burson, and Jeff Burson; sister, Vicki (Dennis) Plothow; his grandchildren, Sara Koizumi and Elijah Graham; as well as many other relatives. Mike was preceded in death by his father; brother, Ron Burson; and sister, Theresa. A visitation time with his family and friends where you can view his life story film and share memories will be held on Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Life Story Funeral Homes, Portage; 5975 Lovers Lane (344-5600). Please visit Mike’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a memory or photo, sign his memory book, or make a memorial donation.