It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Anthony Meda of Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan — a devoted husband, respected businessman, and beloved member of the Grosse Pointe community.

Born on November 27, 1956, and raised in Grosse Pointe Park, Michael lived a life filled with purpose, generosity and love. He attended Austin Catholic Preparatory High School in Detroit, where he first developed the drive and determination that would later define his career. Shortly after high school, Michael started his own painting business, one that, through his vision, hard work, and leadership, grew to become one of the largest, most successful residential and commercial painting and refinishing companies in the State of Michigan.

Michael’s lifelong love of the water began at an early age. At just eight years old, he restored his first boat, a Chris-Craft double cockpit speedboat, sparking a passion for boating that would last his entire life. He worked as a lifeguard at the Grosse Pointe Park pool and later went on to earn his U.S. Coast Guard Commercial Captain’s License. Over the years, Michael restored many boats, cruised extensively throughout the Great Lakes and the North Channel, and found peace and joy on the water.

A fixture of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, Michael served with distinction on the Board of Directors, as Chairman of the Harbor Committee, and as Chairman of the Social Committee. He was also a Commander in the Grosse Pointe Power Squadron, and a proud member of both the Clinton River Boat Club (Club Island) and The Old Club.

Michael’s presence at the Yacht Club was marked by laughter, inclusivity, and friendship. He took great pride in supporting programs that strengthened the Yacht Club community. Many children at the Club lovingly referred to him as “Uncle Mikey,” a testament to his warmth and playful spirit. He was known for gathering friends for dinners, always making others feel welcome, and for his unwavering kindness and generosity. For Michael, friends truly meant the world.

Though he enjoyed tennis and downhill skiing, his greatest passion was always boating, especially the time he spent each summer cruising with his beloved wife, Elisabeth, to Harbor Springs, Michigan. Elisabeth was the love of his life, and together they shared countless adventures and cherished memories, and their bond was admired by all who knew them.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Elisabeth Meda; his mother-in-law, Marguerite Fordyce; his brother-in-law, Malcolm (Jennifer) Fordyce; nephews, James and William Fordyce, and many cousins and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ann and Mike Meda and his father-in-law, James Fordyce.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Michael’s memory to Grosse Pointe Memorial Church or the MSA United Research Consortium to fund research for Multiple System Atrophy, the rare neurological disorder he so courageously battled.

Michael Meda’s life was one of leadership, laughter, friendship, and love, and his spirit will forever shine across the waters he so dearly loved.

A memorial celebration of Michael’s life will be held at Grosse Pointe Memorial Church on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM.

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