Michael Edward Peake, of Muskegon, MI, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 74 on September 16, 2026, surrounded by the love and care of his family and friends.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was married to the love of his life, Mary Peake (Skinner), for 42 wonderful years. Together, they built a life filled with family, friendship, love, laughter, and countless memories. 

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Mary Peake; his five children, Tony Peake (Deb Peake), Becky Peake-Passenier, Jennifer Fessenden (Andy Fessenden), Edward Peake (Lauren Peake), and Emily Forward (Shane Forward), his brother Scott Barton (Theresa), his sister Shelley Tejchma (Larry) and his sister in law Roberta Dress. He is also survived by his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who brought him tremendous joy and pride.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Lois Peake, his sister Vicki Houseman and his brother Greg Peake.

Michael worked as a machinist throughout his career, spending many years in the automotive industry. His years as a machinist reflected the qualities that came naturally to him—precision, patience, and pride in doing things the right way.

Those same qualities could be seen in one of Michael’s favorite crafts: custom fishing rods. He had a special talent for building fishing rods with incredible detail and care. Each fishing rod was something he could put his own time, skill, and personality into, and he took great pride in creating something unique and made to last.

Fishing was more than just a hobby for Michael—it was a way of life and a way to spend time with the people he loved. The Platte River held a special place in his heart, and many cherished memories were made there with a fishing rod in his hand and family and friends by his side. Whether fishing the river, sitting on the ice, heading into the woods for a hunt, or simply comparing fishing and hunting stories, Michael was happiest outdoors and surrounded by good company.

Michael was also a loyal sports fan. He loved watching baseball, football, basketball, and hockey. He was especially passionate about his Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings and remained a faithful fan even when they were having an off season.

He was a wonderful cook who took pride in preparing savory meals for his family and friends. His vegetable garden was another source of enjoyment, and he loved growing vegetables and caring for his garden. For Michael, many of life’s best moments were found in the simple things—working with his hands, creating something with care, growing something in his garden, preparing a good meal, watching a ball game, being on the Platte River, and spending time with the people he loved.

Above all, Michael loved his family. He found his greatest happiness in being together, making memories, sharing meals, telling stories, laughing, and enjoying the outdoors. His love for fishing and hunting, his incredible craftsmanship, his custom fishing rods, his garden, his cooking, and his unwavering loyalty to his Tigers and Red Wings are all pieces of the man his family and friends will forever remember.

Michael leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will continue through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date.