He is survived by his loving wife, Terri McAbee Grauel, his daughter, Jennifer Grauel Smithson (Warren), his son, Michael “Ryan” Grauel (Valerie), and his five beautiful grandchildren, Bradley and Maggie Smithson and Gaines, Hollis and Mason Grauel, by whom he was affectionately called “Papa G.” He is also survived by his younger brother, Mark Grauel (Beth). He is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Carolyn Grauel.
Mike grew up in Birmingham, AL and attended 85th Street Baptist Church and 66th Street Baptist Church. He attended Woodlawn High School, where he played football and was a member of the Warblers. He graduated from The University of Alabama. He married his bride, Terri, on July 26, 1980. He was so honored to have spent 33 years at Southeastern Freight Lines, retiring earlier this month as Regional Vice President of Sales. He was known for his hard work, but that did not come at the expense of intentional time spent with his family. His love for Jesus and his family were his greatest pride and joy.
Mike’s funeral will be held on Monday, April 3, 2023 at Mountain Brook Community Church, 3001 Hwy 280, Birmingham, AL 35243. Visitation will be at 10 am. Funeral Service will be at 12 pm. Graveside Service will follow at Southern Heritage Cemetery, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, AL 35124.
