Michael Wayne Makar

Michael Wayne Makar of West Bloomfield passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on August 15, 1945, in Detroit, Michael was the beloved son of Michael and Tanya Makar (née Novick).

Michael lived a full and vibrant life defined by devotion to family, entrepreneurial spirit, and a genuine love of people. He earned his degree in Accounting from University of Michigan–Dearborn and began his professional career as a CPA before working as an accountant in private industry. His ambition and creativity eventually led him to entrepreneurship, where he partnered in building a successful family entertainment business. Over the years, he helped grow the company into multiple locations and later owned and operated two centers of his own, one in Michigan and one in Florida. The businesses featured go-karts, batting cages, miniature golf, bungee trampolines, and arcade games, a perfect fit for someone who loved being surrounded by young people, laughter, and families creating memories together.

Michael shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Lorraine Makar (née Krol), and together they would have celebrated 56 years of marriage on May 23, 2026.

He was a proud and devoted father to Lisa (Matthew) Dutton and Stacey (Joshua) Gray. Nothing brought Michael greater joy than being “Gramps” to his cherished grandchildren: Olivia Dutton, Isabel Dutton, William Dutton, Michael Dutton, Evelyn Dutton, Jeffrey Gray, and Mason Gray. He enthusiastically supported their passions and activities, attending games, concerts, musicals, regattas, and countless events with pride and excitement. His grandchildren knew him as a constant source of encouragement, humor, and unconditional love.

Michael had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. He could strike up a conversation anywhere, while waiting in line at the grocery store or bank, at restaurants, sporting events, or simply passing by someone new. His outgoing nature, mischievous grin, and twinkle in his eye made him unforgettable to those who met him. He delighted in giving nicknames to friends and family and was always ready with a pun, a dad joke, or playful teasing that brought laughter to every gathering.

His many passions and hobbies reflected his adventurous spirit and appreciation for life. Michael enjoyed flying as a private pilot in small two- and four-seat Cessna planes, as well as bowling, biking, golfing, boating, fishing, swimming, riding his motorcycle, reading biographies of historical figures, seeing movies, and traveling to warm beach destinations. Above all else, he treasured time spent with family and friends.

Michael is lovingly survived by his wife, Lorraine; his daughters, Lisa (Matthew) Dutton and Stacey (Joshua) Gray; his grandchildren, Olivia, Isabel, William, Michael, Evelyn, Jeffrey, and Mason; and his sister, Marilyn Kalasky.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jeffrey Makar; his parents, Tanya and Michael Makar; and his sister, Sandra Ashley.

Michael will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, adventurous spirit, and the joy he brought to every room he entered. His legacy lives on through the family he adored and the countless lives he touched with friendship, laughter, and love.

A visitation will take place at the Elton Black and Son Union Lake Chapel on May 22nd, 2026 from 4:00 until 8:00 PM. A rosary will be said at 5:30 PM. On May 23rd, a Funeral Mass will take place at St. Patrick Catholic Parish Church located at 9086 Hutchins Rd, White Lake, MI 48386. The in-state hour will begin at 9:00AM with Mass following at 10am. Michael will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery at 25800 W 10 Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48033.