Micheal De Graffenried, age 61, passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2021 following a lengthy illness. He was born in Buffalo, New York on March 17, 1959, the son of John Willie and Viola (Whitmore) De Graffenried. After receiving his Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Micheal attended a year of law school. Micheal’s career focus was in governmental operations, education, and human services. He subsequently served in a variety of administrative roles in Fort Worth, Texas, Kalamazoo, Cassopolis, and Muskegon Heights, Michigan. He truly enjoyed his vocation and was loved and respected by his supervisors and peers. On October 19, 1991, Micheal married Delonda (Gant) and they most recently celebrated 29 years of marriage. He and Delonda’s happiest moment was the day their beloved daughter, Rebecca LeeAnne was born. Her birth was a treasured gift that brought so much joy to their world! Together, Micheal and Delonda spent their careers helping and serving others, while being actively involved in ministry in area churches. They served as Founding Members of Resurrection Life Church, (now Radiant Church of Richland), and most recently at The Rock, in Kalamazoo. Micheal was a very kind, generous and faith-filled man, who took very seriously his calling to serve God, and God’s people. The foundations of his values were strong and were instilled in Micheal and his five siblings by his parents, and he deeply loved them all. Micheal’s relationship with the Lord, served as the source of his strength, joy and foundation of his character. He impacted lives, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts of many. Those who knew Micheal, often described him as “One of a kind.” Micheal was preceded in death by his father, John Willie De Graffenried and his brother, John De Graffenried. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Delonda, their daughter Rebecca LeeAnne De Graffenried, both of Kalamazoo, his mother, Viola De Graffenried,  his sisters, Christine  and Mary De Graffenried of Buffalo, NY; Verneda Knight of Fayetteville, NC, brother Kenny (Evelyn) De Graffenried of Buffalo, NY, several nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place.