Michael John Peppard II

- Bob Marley

Michael John Peppard II, known to most as Mikey, was born February 10, 1975, in Houston, Texas, to Kathleen and Mike Peppard.

On October 31, 2025, Mikey left this world far too soon—though those who knew him best might say he just took the afterparty to the next level.

He attended St. Thomas More grade school and was part of the early crew at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, where he played football and wrestled his way into the top 10 in the state. A two-way lineman and total force of nature, he played at Baker University after high school. Sports shaped the way Mikey saw the world—tough, strategic, loyal, and built on teamwork. He was both smart and wise, and knew when to play the long game.

Mikey loved community and built it wherever he found himself: in sports, music, poker, food, travel, friends, and family. It wasn’t that Mikey needed to fit in or find a sense of belonging. Community is the platform that best allowed him to display his greatest attribute, love.

Mikey loved those he shared time with, whether they were moving furniture together or side stage at a concert. To know his love was to know his compassion, trust, and warmth, and all of these were simultaneous when receiving his embrace. His hugs are legendary. If you ever got one, you know.

Mikey lived big and loved hard. He was the life of every room and the calm in every storm. He wrapped you in warmth, told it straight, and showed up when it mattered. No fluff, no BS—just heart.

Mikey is preceded in death by his father Michael, Grandmother Mary Schinze, Grandparents Lillian and Dan Hogerty, Uncle Cy Perkins, Uncle Dennis Hogerty and cousin David Hogerty.

He is survived by his mother, Kathleen Peppard; sister, Jen Peppard; brother-in-law, Craig Napier and their kids Aidan and Ayla Napier; along with a loving extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends that number the stars.

Mikey loved good music, good friends, and a good time.

He was rock n roll through and through.

And the best part? Rock n roll never dies.

His laughter, his loyalty, and his love will echo forever.

We love you, Mikey. Crank it up for us up there.

A mass in honor of Mikey’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at St. Thomas More Church 11822 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri. Mikey loved kids. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Jackson County CASA, an organization advocating for kids in Family Court.