John Michael ‘Mike’ Wanzeck

John Michael “Mike” Wanzeck, age 74, passed away on May 25, 2026, in his hometown of Tecumseh. Born on July 4, 1951, Mike lived a life full of laughter, music, sunshine, storytelling, and love.

A proud member of the Tecumseh community, Mike graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1969 before serving his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He carried a deep respect for military service throughout his life and took great pride in his family’s service to their nation.

Mike never met a stranger. He had a rare gift for making people feel seen, welcomed and important from the moment they met him. He was endlessly charismatic, the kind of man who could talk to anyone about anything. A natural salesman and entertainer, Mike could hold a room captive for hours with stories of adventure, life lessons, hilarious memories and tales that only seemed to grow better with time. He was joyful, magnetic and truly the life of the party.

Known for his kindness and generosity, Mike gave freely of himself. His greatest gift was his unwavering affection for family and friends. He cared deeply and wholeheartedly, and nowhere was that more evident than with his family. He especially adored being Grandpa Mikey to his grandchildren. Whether he was wowing them with magic tricks, sending thoughtful cards in the mail, or making sure they always had a little “WAM” (walking around money), Mike made each of his grandchildren feel cherished and remembered. He had a special way of turning ordinary moments into lifelong memories.

Mike enjoyed music, the beach, sunshine and the outdoors. Whether he was camping in the wilderness, soaking up the Florida sun or simply spending time outside with family and friends, he found joy in nature’s pleasures. During the last two decades of his life, Mike made Southwest Florida his home, embracing the warm weather, coastal lifestyle and countless opportunities to be outdoors. Though he treasured his years in Florida, he was grateful to return to the town and family that meant so much to him in his final chapter.

Above all else, Mike loved his family. He is survived by his daughter, Kelli; his son, Matthew; daughter-in-law Kristine; and his cherished grandchildren, Aidan, Emma, Bennett and Easton. He is also survived by his dear siblings: Patrick, Philip, Tim, Betsy, Tracy, Jane and Kathy. Mike’s sudden passing has left his family heartbroken, but there is peace in knowing he passed quickly and peacefully in the hometown that always held a special place in his heart.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of laughter, compassion, generosity and unforgettable stories. His spirit will live on in every song played too loud, every sunny day spent outside, every gathering filled with laughter and every act of kindness done simply to make someone feel cared for. He will be missed beyond words and remembered always.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to local veterans organizations or acts of kindness in Mike’s memory — take someone to lunch, send a thoughtful card, share a story or strike up a friendly conversation with someone who could use a smile.

The family will hold a celebration of Mike’s life at a later date.