Michael Joseph Holtz, 71, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, in Kansas City, surrounded by family. Mike was Born on October 4, 1954, in Rosemont, Illinois. He was adopted at 3 days old to his parents Nicholas and Rose Holtz. Mike lived a life defined by hard work, humor, and an unwavering devotion to his family and community. 

Mike graduated from Rosemont High school in Rosemont, Illinois in 1973. He immediately began a career in the railroad industry. He served as a conductor, brakeman, and mechanic for both the Milwaukee Road and Burlington Northern railroads. He was a lifelong railroader at heart, but his mechanical genius didn’t stop at the tracks.

Mike was a true "jack of all trades" who could fix anything with a motor or a heartbeat. He had a particular passion for muscle cars—cherishing the roar of an engine and the craftsmanship of a classic build. More than his skills, Mike was known for his massive heart. He lived by a simple code: if someone needed help, he was there.  He assisted friends, neighbors, and even strangers without hesitation, finding genuine joy in being of service to others.  Whether he was under the hood of a car or repairing something broken in a neighbor’s home, Mike was always helping others for as long as he physically could. 

He lived with multiple chronic underlying illnesses and fought daily battles the last 10 years of his life. These health conditions severely impacted his physical abilities but despite all odds, he was remarkably strong and resilient. He never gave up, he never stopped fighting. The unconditional love he poured into his family and community was nothing short of inspiring.

Above all, Mike’s greatest legacy is that he never took life too seriously. He was well known for his warm spirit and ever-present smile. He famously claimed he was "Livin' The Dream"— a phrase that captured his infectious optimism and gratitude for every day.  He had a gift for making those around him feel welcome. 

Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years; Laura (Gonzales) Holtz; his son, Joshua Holtz and daughter in law Kierstin; Two step daughters, Christine Lawson and Jacqueline Hall; 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren & 2 Chihuahua Grand-dogs, Chola and Peso. 

His family remembers him as their real life super hero, their fierce protector, their rock, their biggest supporter, and the glue that held them together. He loved deeply, lived fully, and left everything a little better than he found it.

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