Michael John Harper, age 84, of Oxford, Michigan passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Mike was born in Chicago, Illinois but grew up in Birmingham, Michigan having moved there as a young child. He attended Birmingham High School before deciding to join the Navy. As a Navy Sonar Technician, Mike honorably served his country for four years aboard three Destroyers. After what some may call an "exciting" youth, Mike decided AA would provide a more suitable future and was proudly 59 years sober. While maintaining his own sobriety he also extended his hand to those in need and assisted them with their own journeys. Mike knew the value of hard work. A self-made man, he went to work at Lane Tool in Clawson and later bought the company. He built his business for 28 years and made it successful enough that he could pass it on to his sons who will continue his legacy. In 1996, Mike met his wife Donna and they chose to share their lives together. Both Mike and Donna agreed that the most important thing in life was spending time with family and making memories. As his sons grew up, he took an active role in their upbringing in many ways including coaching hockey teams, getting the whole family involved in skiing, and instilling a strong work ethic. When Mike and Donna retired, they moved to Walloon Lake, MI where they hosted their children and grandchildren every chance they got. The outdoors was where Mike went to escape the stresses of the world. He was a member of the Bucks Only Hunt Club, which he enjoyed both for the company as well as the sport. He went hiking in Sedona and spent decades running with "The Rochester Running Group". Mike's home away from home was Boyne Mountain in northern Michigan where he would spend most winter weekends skiing. He also loved many ski trips out west with friends and family. A major highlight being a heli ski trip to Canada during which he was caught in an avalanche. In retirement Mike became curious about his heritage. He was proud to find that a distant relative had fought in the revolutionary war and became a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He lived a life of generosity and compassion and did so anonymously. He did not seek out praise for his good deeds but did them because of the kindness in his heart. He showed those around him how to be givers and leaves a legacy of compassion that will continue on.
Michael is survived by his wife, Donna Harper; his sons Scott Harper (Kristina), Kevin Harper (Kelly), and Chris Harper (Inga Grills); his step-sons David Cackowski and Rob Cackowski (Jennifer); his grandchildren Samantha (Jose), Max (Caroline), Griffin, Elizabeth, Jacqueline, Katie, Kyle, Eli (Nina), and Vance; his great grandchild Noelle; The Rochester Running Group; and his many beloved pets and grand-pets.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Mary Emma Harper; and his brothers Frederick and Barry Harper.
A memorial visitation for Michael will be held Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Pixley Funeral Home, 322 W. University Dr., Rochester, Michigan 48307, with a memory sharing at 7:00 PM.
Contributions in Michael's memory may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind or Assistance League of Southeast Michigan.
