Michael “Mike” Thomas Joseph Truax passed away on March 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 1, 1944, at St. Joseph Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, he was the son of Dorothy and Ralph Truax.

Mike grew up in Detroit and later moved to Utica, Michigan, attending St. Lawrence School. He graduated from Sacred Heart Academy High School in Mt. Pleasant, and attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.

Mike spent his career as a civil engineer and took pride in pointing out the buildings and projects he helped create around Ann Arbor. He was known for his jokes (usually inappropriate and only appreciated at the guys' table at Knights on Mondays). He also had a knack for creativity—he created the first portable TV VHS player for a family road trip to Eaton's Ranch in the early 80s and should have patented his "Porta-Band" invention.

Mike served in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant (O3) and photo navigator, stationed on Guam. He was awarded the Air Medal Strike/Flight Award for his service.

His love for the Great Lakes was matched only by his love for travel, Euchre, Schlitz, and Scotch—usually enjoyed together. He was also a huge fan of Michigan football and softball, never missing an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams.

He mostly wanted people to remember that he wasn’t fat when he died, and he could ri-ri (fix) almost anything. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him, who will carry forward his stories and laughter. The family requests that a toast be raised in his honor with a fine Scotch—or a Schlitz (if you can find it).

Mike is survived by daughters, Samantha (Rick) Brandt of Dexter, Emily (Rob) Edgcombe of the Bahamas, and Josselyn (Matt) Buchanan of Wisconsin; grandchildren, Shane MacNeil, Lauren MacNeil, Mallory Brandt, Liam MacNeil, Carson Brandt, Cameron MacNeil, and Brenna, Anya, Will, and James Buchanan; step-brother, Forrest “Jim” Youngs; former wife (& mom to Samantha & Emily), Julie Truax; former son-in-law, Michael MacNeil; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Ila Truax; and sister, Carole Van Den Branden.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at the Dexter American Legion on Sunday, May 11, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Champions Circle Michigan Softball Enhancement Fund or Leader Dogs for the Blind. Go Blue.

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