Michael Hoag

As a young man, Michael attended Carson Long Military Institute in Pennsylvania, an experience that shaped his strong work ethic, quiet confidence, and respect for structure and craftsmanship.

Michael was a Senior Designer at General Motors, where his creativity, precision, and dedication left a lasting mark. He took great pride in his work and carried that same care and craftsmanship into every part of his life.

He is survived by his loving family: Daughter, Jenny Hoag, and siblings:Mark Hoag, Matt Hoag, Donna Ortega, Linda Freeman, and his honorary sister, Sandy Gaffey. His loved ones were his world, and he showed his devotion through steady presence, quiet support, and a heart that never held back affection. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, parents Dr. Warren G. and Euleta Hoag, and brother Martin Hoag.

Michael found joy in sailing open waters, traveling to new places, and chasing adventures with family and friends. For many years, those adventures included camping, with the last 20 spent traveling by motorhome. He was an active member of the Lansing Winnies, a Winnebago club, and proudly served as its President for a time. He held a special love for snowbirding to Florida, where Grove Ridge RV Resort became a cherished seasonal home and community. At home, he could often be found immersed in his model railroading, surrounded by trains of every size and scale, lost in careful detail and imagination. Music was another lifelong love — whether playing guitar, dulcimer, banjo, or ukulele, he filled spaces with warmth, rhythm, and melody.

He was kind, funny, and welcoming to everyone he met. A gentle spirit with a bright sense of humor, Michael made people feel at ease and valued. His absence is deeply felt, but his love, laughter, and passions live on in those who knew him.

The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life and light luncheon at Michael’s home on January 17, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. This will be an open-house gathering, and friends and family are welcome to stop by at any time. Please contact the family directly for the address and details.

He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Until we meet at the next station, Mike.