“MIKE”, passed away very suddenly on Thursday, June 15, 2017 just days past his 86th birthday. He was born and raised in Grand Rapids. The son of Dr. William J. and Marguerite (Cusick) Cary. He was very proud of his 100% Irish roots. Mike taught High School Biology and spent his entire teaching career at East Grand Rapids High School. Mike graduated from Catholic Central in 1949, the University of Michigan, attended classes at the University of Chicago, U.C. Berkeley and finally receiving his Masters in Biology from the University of Oregon. Mike was honored to serve in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. His love of the Natural World took him on many adventures from laying the trails on Isle Royale in 1950 to canoeing the Mississippi River from the headwaters to New Orleans in the 1990’s. He was “Santa” to many children in the Coopersville area. Mike was preceded in death by his parents and sister Patricia Gentleman. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Charlotte and son Thomas (Katie Brandt). The joy of his life came nearly 5 years ago with the birth of his grandson, Leland Cary. Mike is also survived by his sister, Sheila Cary Meagher; many nieces, nephews, cousins, Chalotte’s family, and dear friends. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 20, 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, June 21, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2750 Burton St. S.E., Grand Rapids. Msgr. Ernest P. Schneider presiding. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Ottawa Co. Parks Foundation, PO Box 510, Allendale, MI 49401, Blandford Nature Center,1715 Hillburn Ave. N.W., Grand Rapids, MI 49504 or WM Environmental Action Council, 1007 Lake Dr. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49506
