Michael Poyer Obituary

Michael Poyer, 78, of Williamston, Michigan, went home to his Lord and Savior on July 26, 2025. He passed away in hospice at Medilodge in Milford, Michigan, surrounded by his loving family.

Michael (Mike) was born on August 21, 1946 in Battle Creek, Michigan to Joseph J. Poyer and Eileen (Powell) Poyer, and grew up with two brothers Joseph J. Poyer Jr. and Philip Poyer.

He graduated in 1964 from St. Philip High School in Battle Creek. He is fondly remembered by his classmates as a state champion with multiple honors in track and football, as a kind, easygoing person, and a "true gentleman".

Mike's hobbies and interests helped define who he was. He enjoyed the outdoors, growing up played football with his brother Phil in the yard (sometimes even in the living room when their mom wasn't home-and big brother Joe would never tell on them).

Teachers described him as a student who took feedback well in his learning and there was always a comment in notes home to the family that he got along very well with all children. Mike loved to talk about and draw jets, loved sports and being outside-winning on the playground was very important to him.

Upon high school graduation Mike was offered a scholarship to run track at Western Michigan, as well as a full scholarship to play football at the University of Nebraska, but instead chose to serve his country and enlisted in the service.

Mike faithfully served four years in the U.S. Air Force as Airman First Class (A1C), stationed in Thailand during the Vietnam conflict. He earned several medals for his dedication and honorable service, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Service Star, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. His Airman Qualification scores reflected exceptional ability in general intelligence, electronics, and administrative skills. He was a trusted and capable protector of our nation's interests, and we are deeply proud of his legacy.

After his military service, he spent over 20 years in law enforcement ranging from Police Officer to Dispatch and Acting Police Chief. Mike later moved out west due to his love of nature and worked in Yellowstone National Park. His journey also took him to Casper, Wyoming and Seattle, Washington. After retiring and returning back to the east side of the country, he often spent his weekends cuddling with a pet watching his favorite Michigan sports teams, Westerns, or war movies. His love for sports and airplanes was something he shared with his friends and family, leaving a mark on us that will never fade.

Though Mike didn't share too much about his time spent in Vietnam, he desired to be buried in a military cemetery. We will always remember him as a man of wit, stories, kindness, and gentlemanly qualities who left a lasting impact on everyone who met him.

A Military Honor Service will be held on August 12, 2025 at 11AM at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd. Holly, MI 48442. For those wishing to attend, please arrive at least 15 minutes early to join the vehicle procession and receive further escort instructions. All in attendance are welcome to the home of Jeff and Bethany for a lunch afterward.

Mike is survived by his son Kristopher (Kristie) Kostelecky of Casa Grande, AZ, and grandchildren Bryce (Bailey) of San Francisco, CA and Payton of Twin Falls, ID; son Michael Ryan Poyer of Lansing, MI; and daughter Bethany (Jeff) Burpee and grandchildren; Cavan, Chase, and Chloe-Kate of Milford, MI. He is also survived by many wonderful nieces and nephews and their families.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online at the link below to Renewed Hope Counseling Center of South Lyon, MI or by check to the Huron Valley AMVETS Post 2006 in Milford, MI amvets2006.org in Memory of Michael Poyer.