Edwin Michael Garvin

Mike was born in Detroit, Michigan, on November 16, 1943, to Dorothea Alice (Blosser) Garvin and Edwin Michael Garvin. After the passing of his father in 1953, Mike, just nine years old, embraced the role of “man of the family,” a responsibility he carried with devotion for the rest of his life.

He grew up on the EastSide of Detroit and graduated from St. Martin High School in 1963, where he was an all-state athlete, team captain, and standout football player. He went on to attend Northern Michigan University in Marquette, earning a degree in Economics in 1968. During his college years, he blossomed—founding a business fraternity, thriving academically, and collecting colorful stories from his frequent hitchhiking trips between Marquette and home.

Mike married Sharon (Roney) Garvin in 1970. Together, they raised three children—Julia, Jennifer, and Jason—in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. Their home became known for barbecues, a backyard pool, poker games, and one unforgettable summer when an entire cow was cooked on the grill. Though Mike and Sharon divorced in 1991, over time they put aside their difference to continue to make memories and gather with their family together as a family. In 1998, Mike moved with Jason to Grosse Pointe Woods to be closer to his family and his business.

Mike started off in social work, then transitioned to the trucking industry. He ran a GM/Freightliner dealership before founding National Truck Leasing in Roseville, MI, and later partnered with Andrea Riviera in Riviera Transport. Mike’s generosity showed in his business—he gave many their first job or a second chance, always offering support where it was needed, regardless of experience.

A thinker and lifelong learner, Mike believed in examining every side of an issue and never shied away from a controversial conversation. He always loved playing devil's advocate to invoke a more lively conversation. Mike proudly claimed that he maintained a spotless driving record (something he never failed to mention). He loved games that brought people together—poker, chess, pinochle, and the family favorite, “Oh Hell.” His sharp wit and playful competitiveness made him a legend at the kitchen table.

Mike was happiest outdoors, whether camping at the Pinery, white-water rafting, or flipping pancakes at the griddle on family mornings. He was deeply proud of his children and grandchildren, and he was there to support his family after the birth of each grandchild—traveling whatever distance it took to be present. He helped with chores around the house and whatever was needed to help ease the transition into parenthood.

Mike’s life was a tapestry of adventure, humor, and unforgettable stories that his loved ones will cherish and share for years to come. From scaring off the suitors of his little sisters with hand crushing handshakes, to his legendary escapades and adventures, Mike had a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories that forged lifelong friendships. But perhaps his greatest joy was the time spent with his grandchildren, creating memories that will live on through their laughter. Anyone who knew Mike has at least a few incredible stories to tell — and that’s exactly how he would have wanted it.

Mike is survived by his children: Julia Garvin and her son Robbie Duvall; Jennifer Garvin Bonnici and her husband Tony Bonnici, and their children Chloe and Conor; and Jason Garvin and his wife Sabrina Garvin, and their children Genevieve and Jasper.

Mike was the third of six siblings. He is survived by his sister Judy Harthorn (Don), his sister Patricia (Patty) Donahue (Jack), sister Kathleen Wrobel (Ron) and his brother Thomas Garvin and partner Randi English. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older sister Dorothea Joanne Petrie (Charlie).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at:

A.H. Peters Funeral Home

20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236

Visitation: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Service and Story Sharing: 4:00 PM

Mike’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched—with his humor, his generosity, his strong sense of family, and his unwavering love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.