Theodore Michael “Mike” Overly, age 78, of Rudyard, Michigan, passed away peacefully, in the presence of his loving wife, at MyMichigan Medical Center Sault, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, following an extended illness. Mike was born November 22, 1946, in Cheboygan, Michigan, the son of Douglas and Evelyn (Buchanan) Overly.
Mike grew up in Nankin Township, in Wayne County, Michigan. Mike graduated with the first graduating class of Franklin High School in 1964. In 1966 he was drafted into the United States Marine Corps and proudly served from 1966 until 1969 in Vietnam, participating in various operations with the 12th Marine District bases. He served an additional three years in the reserves. Mike worked at Hydramatic GM Plant in Ypsilanti in 1965, taking a three year leave of absence for military service, then resumed working there upon military discharge. He worked as a pipefitter from 1972-1982, taking night classes after work for several years at two different colleges at the same time, eventually becoming a Journeyman Pipefitter during that time. While there, he and a coworker shared recognition and a monetary award for a design suggestion that resulted in significant company cost-saving.
In January 1972, Mike met the love of his life in Beth while taking college night classes. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage on November 4, 1972. In 1982, the lure of the Rocky Mountains took them westward to Montana, with no promise of employment. After working at a few odd jobs outside his experience, he began working at Montana Urethane Systems Supply (MUSS). While at a training convention with the owner, an agreement was written up on a paper napkin, and Mike became the new owner of MUSS, for 15 years, until retirement. In 2001, Northern Arizona became home. Mike and Beth shared 52 wonderful years together, in a caring, loving marriage.
Enjoying one outdoor adventure after another, boating; kayaking; hunting; touring on motorcycles; archery; Cowboy-Action, Trap, and long-distance shooting competition; being a firearms mentor to many; raising horses for personal enjoyment; snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing; playing his guitars for hours on end; and RV traveling filled their days. After several years of summering in Rudyard, 2022 brought both Mike and Beth back to roost full-time in their U.P. home, to be closer to family. Mike’s wit, wisdom, sense of humor, humility, courage, strength, grit, kindness, and endless generosity define him.
Mike had the remarkable ability to live his life embracing his Marine training to improvise, adapt, and overcome all obstacles in all situations he faced. Mike touched countless lives and is loved by all who have had the pleasure of knowing him.
Mike is survived by his wife, Beth; mother, Evelyn Staley; aunt, Barbara J. Buchanan; cousin, Robert Buchanan; brother-in-law, D.J. Catton; sister-in-law, Romana Catton; nieces, Jennifer Woznick and Hilary Catton; special friends, Pat and Caryl Williams, Ron and Cat Ellis, and Pamm Bakley; cousin, Jeff and Denise Beauchamp; and numerous extended family and friends.
Mike was preceded in death by his father; sister, Sandra; stepfather, James (Bud) Staley; beloved cousins William Buchanan and Uncle Robert Buchanan; father and mother-in-law, John and Marjorie (Mollie Dowd) Langendam.
The family expresses sincere gratitude to the MyMichigan Medical Center Oncology, Radiology, Emergency, Infusion and the second-floor medical department for the compassionate care and support shown during Mike’s illness.
A Celebration of Mike’s Life will be on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11 A.M. at the Rudyard Township Community Center, 18725 S. Mackinac Trail, Rudyard, which will include a luncheon.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike’s name may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, St. Jude Children’s Hospital; PetSmart Charities or charity of choice.
Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
Obituary as submitted by family
