Michael G. Andrews

Michael G. Andrews, 59, of Gaylord, passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack on July 4th, 2020.  A Gaylord resident since 1999, Mike left a legacy of love, fun and humor. Born in Saginaw on April 26, 1961, Mike graduated from Howe Military School in Indiana in 1979 where he loved to return for reunions with the many fellow classmates he considered his brothers.

He married Laura B. (Laurie) MacRae on July 7, 1984, and the couple moved to Denver, Colo., where Mike managed several Discount Tire locations until 1994, when they moved back to Michigan as owners of a durable medical equipment franchise in Traverse City.  After relocating to Gaylord, he continued what would become a lifelong career in sales.

Mike had an endearing personality that won him many friends. He would do anything to help others.  His favorite place on earth was his home and surrounding 33 acres in Sparr.  He loved anything outdoors including his Kubota, golf cart, having family and friends come over for a “Mike’s Excellent Adventure” around his property, to teach others how to snipe hunt, and to catch 24” fish from his pond.  He was a master joke teller, enjoyed listening to music, story-telling, deer hunting, and playing golf.  In 2000, he became a dad to his daughter, Jenna Marie.  Jenna was the light of his life and this would be his proudest life moment.

Mike was a five-year survivor of colon cancer.  In August 2019 he endured a grueling abdominal surgery and a lengthy but valiant recovery.  The family has much appreciation for Dr. Shurlow and the devoted and talented nursing staff in the ICU Department at Munson Otsego Memorial Hospital.  His life was surely prolonged by their dedicated care.   He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church and was in the Monday Night Men’s Group.  Those considering a memorial may wish to consider his church, PO Box 617, Gaylord, MI 49734 or the Otsego County United Way, 116 E Fifth Ave, Gaylord, MI  49735.

He is survived by his wife Laurie and daughter Jenna Andrews, both of Gaylord; twin sister Leslie Andrews (Rick McGregor) of Denver, Colo.; brother John Andrews (Jeanette) of Des Plaines, Ill., mother-in-law Nancy MacRae of Saginaw, sister-in law Linda MacRae of Sacramento, Cali., brother-in-law Randy Holecheck of Guthrie Lakes, nieces Taline, Ani, Tamar, Nora, Alice, Elizabeth, nephew Jacob, his aunt Kay Colbeck, and many cousins and relatives he kept in touch with over the years.  He was a friend to many and was fortunate to have a best friend in Bob (Kelly) Johnson and his “second daughter,” Madison.  He was predeceased by his parents Ann and Jack Andrews, father-in-law Edward MacRae, sister-in-law Sarah Holecheck and his fellow high school classmate and neighbor, Glenn Jackson.

The family will hold a private graveside service at Oakwood Cemetery in Saginaw, MI and hope to hold a celebration of Mike’s life at a later date.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.co