Michael William Cortright

Michael William Cortright of Kalamazoo, MI passed away in the early hours of Monday, March 28, 2022, at the age of 69. He was born in Albion, MI on January 22, 1953 the son of Leroy “Bill” and Louise Cortright.

Michael lived and went to grade school in Homer, MI then moved to Battle Creek, MI where he finished high school and graduated from Lakeview High School in 1971. He was a true jack of all trades and worked in a variety of fields having been employed as a restaurant manager, a private investigator for workman compensation claims, a groundskeeper on a small Arizona ranch and finished his working career working as a carpenter that specialized in cabinet installation and handyman work. 

He was an outdoorsman that enjoyed bowfishing, deer hunting, working on side carpentry projects with his daughter, and taking drives through the countryside. Some of his favorite places were in Arizona where liked to drive around taking in the beautiful scenery and looking for elk. He especially loved spending time at Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Lake.  

In his free time he enjoyed photography, watching and talking about football with his mom, watching westerns especially anything with John “The Duke” Wayne, working on puzzles, and playing cards, cribbage, and backgammon. 

Michael will fondly be remembered for his love of spending time with family and friends, being silly and goofy Uncle Mike ("pull my finger"), an intense card player ("shoot the moon"), he serenaded us all with his humming when he enjoyed a good meal, and most of all his beautiful and infectious smile!

He is preceded in his passing by his father: Leroy “Bill” Cortright and his companion: Val.

Left to cherish his loving memory are his children: Delisa (Dan), and Jason; mother: Louise; siblings: Kathy (Fred), Beth (Pierre), Eric, Tim (Melissa), and Lisa; and many wonderfully amazing nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

In accordance with Michael’s wishes cremation has taken place and a private celebration of his life will be held on a later date.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Michael’s guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Cortright family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 129 S. Grand Street, Schoolcraft, MI 49087. 269-679-5622