MICHAEL F. BUDNIK

On Oct. 7, 1972 he married Kathleen Montych in Posen, Michigan. They celebrated 50 years of marriage which were filled with adventures traveling the country. Over the years, they lived in the states of Michigan, Florida, South Dakota, and Texas. Starting with a tent and finishing as full-time RVers with a 45-foot motorhome hauling a Jeep and a Harley Davidson, they visited 44 states and created many friendships in their travels. His favorite trip was taken earlier this year to Hawaii.

Mike loved the water and outdoors. Deer hunting, fishing, boating, and water skiing on Grand Lake were some of his favorite pastimes. After his retirement, he took up golf and pickleball which soon became his passion. He played every chance he could and had many fond memories of competition and fun with friends.

Watching sports was a big part of his life. A diehard Detroit Tigers, Lions, Pistons and Red Wings fan, he cheered and yelled for his team every game. After moving to Texas, he became an Astros fan and loved having a winning team. He enjoyed the Rolling Stones, telescopes, model trains, war planes, playing endless card games, watching western movies and playing with his grand-dog Apollo. He dreamed of being a pilot and winning the Powerball which he faithfully played each week.

He loved his family deeply and was so proud. He is survived by his wife, Kathy of Pearland, Texas; daughter Michelle (Dave) Hester of Iowa Colony, Texas; grandson Dylan Kangas of Houghton, Michigan; brother Arthur of Posen, Michigan; brother Marvin (Evelyn) of Presque Isle, Michigan; sister Carol (Gerald) Kalkman of Frostproof, Florida and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Emily; brother Arne; sister-in-law Marge.

Cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time. A future celebration of life will take place to share stories and remembrances of him.