Michael "Mike" Butzke passed away on January 1, 2021 at the age of 72. His battle with cancer showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Despite the pain, Mike came out a hero and stayed strong until the end. He will always be remembered for his kind, compassionate spirit toward others. Mike met the love of his life, Carolyn Beckley, at their high school, Milford High School. They were married for 53 years and, together, had two children: Caryn and Gregory. As a child, Mike discovered a love for fishing and being on the water. It's likely that this love led him to enlist in the U.S. Navy after high school. He proudly served for four years, during the Vietnam War, and remained in the reserves for an additional two years. During his time in the Navy, he learned the trade skills to become an electrician. After an honorable discharge, Mike became an Apprentice Electrician. He went on to earn his Journeyman's license and eventually became a Master Electrician. Later in his career, Mike became both an electrical inspector and building inspector. The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Mike. He loved God and his family with everything he did. He enjoyed spending time outdoors either fishing, hunting, gardening, riding his 4-wheeler, or tinkering in the garage. Mike also had a lifelong passion for reading and learning new things. Mike is survived by his wife, Carolyn; daughter, Caryn; son, Gregory; and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth. He was a proud Papa to grandsons, Michael, Gabriel, and Drew; granddaughter, Anbreona; and great-grandson, Henrick. There will be a small service for immediate family members only. The family asks that in lieu of flowers or gifts, memorial donations be sent to either the Vietnam Veterans of America (https://vva.org/) or Hospice of Michigan (https://www.hom.org/). Service Details. Interment Location: Fort Custer National Cemetery Address: Address: Not Available Augusta, Michigan