It is with sincere sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Michael Libbee. Born on December 9, 1945, he died on January 28, 2024 after a brief illness.

Michael was an alumnus of West Genesee High School in Camillus, New York, graduating in 1963. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1967, after which he completed both his master's degree and Ph.D. in Geography at Syracuse University. From 1982-2020 he served as Professor of Geography at Central Michigan University, during which time he spearheaded the creation of four endowments and generated millions in grants for the furtherance of geographic education. In 1989 he co-founded the Michigan Geographic Alliance, with the goal of strengthening geography and environmental education in Michigan. To this day, the organization provides networking and professional development events for teachers and educational materials to classrooms across the state. Michael's passion for education and geography was a one of his trademark characteristics, and his infectious enthusiasm inspired countless students and teachers.

Michael was the beloved husband of Kristin Sheridan, whom he married in 1971. Michael was a loving father to daughters Brooke Emery and Dana Libbee, as well as grandchildren Norah, Leroy and Marlo Emery, Eli Jeffries, and Maia Libbee. His surviving family also includes his daughter-in-law Heather Jeffries, son-in-law Daniel Emery, and brother Eric Starr. Michael was predeceased by his parents, Rodney Libbee and Louise Starr, as well as his brother Dean Libbee.

Throughout their 53-year marriage, Michael and Kristin shared numerous adventures together, often seen biking or walking their loyal canine companion, PJ. They made the most of their health, traveling the world and enjoying each other's company, always making friends wherever they went. Their favorite getaways included family gatherings in the Finger Lakes region of central New York and summer trips to the coast of Lake Michigan.

Michael will forever be remembered for his generosity, his love for his family, and his dedication to his students, and his legacy will continue on in the lives of those he has touched. In accordance with his wishes, he was cremated. A family ceremony of remembrance is being planned for a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy.

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