Michael "Mike" Louis Durocher class of 1967

October 21, 1948 - July 10, 2025

Mike was a gifted artist, athlete, and a lover of life. He was extremely clever with his hands and his mind. He always had a creative approach to solving problems. It was often said that “if Mike couldn’t fix it, it couldn’t be fixed."

His spark was ever present and couldn’t be denied. In childhood photos he often had an impish grin and a twinkle in his eye that he carried throughout his life. People were drawn to him by his great sense of humor and his easy laugh. He loved music, history, and was well versed in a variety of topics. He had a sharp mind and could recite movie quotes, songs, and information that he read years ago.

As a young boy he discovered and developed his artistic talent for drawing by creating stunning still life compositions in pastels, and pen and ink. Later on he became accomplished in oils and acrylics, as well as other mediums such as copper, clay and bronze. He loved to encourage others with their artistic pursuits. He put together, and presented a seminar he titled as “Art and the Artist.”

At the age of 10, Mike started gymnastics training alongside University of Michigan gymnastic legends, Phil and Chip Fuller, in Pensacola, Florida under the US Navy’s gymnastics coach, Bruno Junge. The strength and balance he acquired from gymnastics allowed him to excel in other sports. At Okemos High School, he held the track and field high jump record. In 1967, at 154 lbs, he was the Class B State Wrestling Champion. He carried his team to winning the State Championship that year by tying the record for scoring the most individual points in a Class B State Wrestling Tournament. He later went on to coach wrestling at Seaholm High School in Birmingham, Michigan.

Mike married Wanda E. “Wendy” Welter on November 28, 1992. They remained together until her passing on October 19, 2005. Mike was preceded in death by: his parents, Charles Oliver and Alba Estrella Durocher; and his spouse, Wanda E. “Wendy” Welter. He is survived by: seven siblings, Dianne Louise Charles (Richard) VanFulpen, Charles Oliver (Cindy) Durocher, Jr., Yvette Marie Schroeder, Dennis Anthony (Sara) Durocher, Lorraine Cecile (Greg McDonald) DuRocher, Andrew Paul Durocher, Gerard Jerome Durocher; as well as eight nephews; two nieces;
five great nephews; and six great nieces.

He was a realist but a true optimist. Even in the face of great difficulty he displayed grace and courage. He was unapologetically himself, always – a true champion.

Information on a memorial service will be forthcoming. 

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From his sister Lorraine DuRocher class of 1968 on July 10, 2025: 

"Mike's battle with bone cancer ended this morning.  Rest in peace, my brother.  My heart is broken."

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Published April 23, 1964 Lansing State Journal

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Published April 29, 1964 Lansing State Journal

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Published May 15, 1964 Lansing State Journal

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Published February 18, 1965 Lansing State Journal

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Published August 1, 1965 Lansing State Journal

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Published August 18, 1965 Lansing State Journal

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Published February 13, 1966 Lansing State Journal

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Published February 21, 1966 Lansing State Journal

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Published February 28, 1966 Lansing State Journal

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Published May 06, 1966 Lansing State Journal

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Published May 11, 1966 Lansing State Journal

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Published May 15, 1966 Lansing State Journal

 

(More to follow...)

 

 

https://www.rileyfuneralhome.com/obituary/michael-durocher