It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Patrick McNeely ("Mike") class of 1971 on July 8, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Born on July 23, 1953 to Robert "Bob" & Mary McNeely, Mike was known for his quick wit and the joy he brought to every room he entered. His laughter was contagious and his kindness was felt by all.
Mike was born in Detroit and attended Okemos High School. He carried with him a passion for the MSU Spartans, the Detroit Lions & Tigers, but while spending some time working in Florida, he developed a love for his lifelong favorite sports team, the Miami Dolphins. Mike had many successful business ventures throughout his life including working alongside his father distributing Cain's Potato Chips & snack foods in the Lansing area with their business McNeely Distributing. Later on, Mike became part-owner of Tripper's Sport Bar and enjoyed many years of operating a staple of his community. In his final years, Mike started "Mike's Painting" and found joy and friendships connecting with his customers while beautifying their homes. In his spare time, Mike loved golfing, playing shuffleboard, visiting casinos and mostly spending quality time with his family and friends. His love of music was evident, as he could name that tune with only a few notes heard. He passed on that love of music to his greatest treasure, his son Don. A common sight at American Legion Post 269 and the Mayfair Bar, Mike was a pillar of his local community, known and loved by many. You may have heard one of many of his many endearing nicknames called out around town; Chippley, Doc, Captain Action, Mikey...
Mike's life was defined by his love for family and friends, and his dedication to leading his life with kindness and joy. These values he shared with his loved ones will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.
He is survived by his son, Don (Misha) Snider, his sister, Gail McNeely, many cousins, and a nephew and nieces who loved him dearly. Mike was predeceased by his father, his mother and his brother Bob.
A Celebration of Life for Mike will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 3-7 PM at the American Legion Post 269 in Haslett, MI.
We invite all who knew Mike to join us in this Celebration of Life, to remember and honor a man who made the world a little brighter with his presence. His kindness, love, and laughter will be dearly missed, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
From his loving sister Gail McNeely:
"Last night my brother and best friend Mike McNeely left this earth after a long and courageous battle with cancer I was so blessed to have him in my life. He will forever be in my heart 
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There will be a celebration of life on August 9th, 3-7 pm at the American Legion, 1485 Haslett Rd, Haslett,MI 48840"