🕊️ Michael James Brevig

(“The Ladder Guy”)

Michael James Brevig, age 64, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on October 17, 2025.

Michael was born on February 14, 1961, in St. Paul, Minnesota. He was raised in Orlando, Florida, and made his home in South Florida until 2016, when he moved to Wildwood, Georgia. He attended Forest Lake Academy, where he began his entertainment career as a young ventriloquist- the first step in a lifelong adventure of bringing joy to others. 

He graduated from the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College, performing under the clown name Chingy Doofer. His remarkable career took him from the circus ring to the world stage — performing with the Flying Wallendas, Circus Vargas, and many others.

Michael later brought his unique act to the streets and eventually to cruise ships, where he spent more than 25 years performing at sea. He became known as the #1 performing artist on board, spreading joy, laughter, and wonder to audiences around the world.

Beyond his talent and humor, Michael was known for his deep compassion and caring nature. He had an incredible gift for making others feel seen, valued, and loved — both on and off the stage.

He is survived by his mother, Bernadine “Boni” Johnson; his brothers, Thomas “Tom” Charles Brevig and Chris Taylor Brevig; his children, Michael James Charles Brevig Jr. and Jenna Louise Brevig; his life partner, Sally Brevig; and his beloved pets, Bella, Oliver, and Zoey.

Michael’s legacy will live on through the countless smiles he inspired and the laughter he shared with everyone who crossed his path.

You are invited to the Celebration of Life service for Michael James Brevig at the Better Living Center in Wildwood, GA, with the schedule as follows:

Sunday, October 19

• 2:00 PM — Visitation

• 3:00 PM — Celebration of Life with Pastor Steve officiating

“So much time and so little to do. Wait a minute. Strike that. Reverse it.” -Willy Wonka

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” Revelation 21:4 NLT

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