Michael Van Buren

Michael Todd Van Buren, 73, died on December 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as unforgettable as the life he lived. Full of spirit, opinion, and heart, Michael was a man who lived entirely on his own terms. Life lived boldly, loudly, and without apology.

Born December 8, 1952, to Stephen and Audrey (Todd) Van Buren, Michael was a proud husband to Kim Marie Van Buren and a devoted father to Matthew Todd Van Buren and John Christopher Van Buren. He adored his grandchildren—Mason and Dylann, children of Matthew and his wife Liza; and Brady and Duke, sons of John and Elisha—who brought him immeasurable pride and joy.

Michael’s life was also defined by an extraordinary skill and devotion to a rare craft. In 1972, he began as an apprentice furrier, mastering the fine and demanding art of working with fur. Over time, he helped build what would become Wolverine Fur Company, a Detroit institution now operating in the heart of the city’s iconic Eastern Market. For more than 52 years, Michael poured his artistry, tradition, and passion into the business, becoming one of the last true Master Furriers in the United States, and even the world. His work was not only skilled, but it was also legacy-making.

Michael was truly a force of nature. He found his rhythm in the great outdoors—casting his line into the pristine waters of Mullet Lake, perfecting his golf swing with passion and precision, and proudly earning the title of Champion Golfer of the Year in the Primex Leasing / America Golf League in 2025. He celebrated each sunset and campfire as if it were his first, embracing every moment with awe, laughter, and gratitude. He carried a lifelong love for The Beatles, often quoting Lennon and living out the lyrics with fierce independence and full-hearted love.

He lived with an unshakable sense of self. He never swayed, always certain, full blooded in his convictions and inspired those around him to do the same. His laugh could fill a room, his stories could fill a night, and his love for his people knew no bounds. One of his favorite expressions, “I’m a river to my people,” captured both his generosity and his sense of purpose.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Stephen Jay Van Buren. He is survived by his mother, Audrey Jean Van Buren; his sisters, Cheryl Wells and Diane Van Buren Zachary; his loving wife Kim Marie; his sons Matthew and John; his daughters-in-law Liza and Elisha; and his beloved grandchildren Mason, Dylann, Brady, and Duke.

A memorial service will be held January 7th, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, MI 48152, to celebrate Michael’s extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to TROUT UNLIMITED. Please donate in tribute to Michael’s love for the outdoors and his belief in living fully, loving fiercely, and laughing often.