November 14, 1941 ~ July 8, 2025
Michael (Mike) John Ohrling was born on November 14, 1941, to Walter Marvin and Edna Viola (Loftis) Ohrling in Muskegon, Mich. Mike peacefully passed away on July 8, 2025 surrounded by his family.
On January 20, 1962, he married the love of his life, Catherine (Kay) Lavigne and they spent 63 wonderful years together. They had four children: Adam Ohrling, Joe (Patti) Ohrling, Brad Ohrling and Michelle (Aaron) Bennett.
Mike is survived by: his brothers Marvin (Nancy) Ohrling and Patrick (Faye) Ohrling; grandchildren Zachary Ohrling, Nina (Mitch) Cole, Colton Ohrling, Terri (Nate) Hansen, Alyssa (Matt) Henry, Jeff (Anna) Ohrling, Emma Bennett and Jillian (Aaron) Burns; and great-grandchildren Daytona Ohrling, Spencer Cole, Jaxson Henry, Ella Ladenburg, Ayla and Lucas Burns.
Mike was a talented sporting clays and skeet shooter, with a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship behind the sport. He spent countless hours meticulously refilling his own shotgun shells. A true outdoorsman at heart, he found joy in bird and duck hunting, and cherished the quiet moments in nature. Music was another of Mike's great loves. He played bass guitar in a country music band. He was also a skilled woodworker, using his hands not only to build, but to create lasting memories, constructing many of the homes his family lived in over the years. In August 1983, Mike and his family made the adventurous move to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. There, they embraced the mountain life, skiing together and working side by side at the Steamboat Ski Area with Adam and Joe.
In 1994, the family returned to Michigan to be closer to their extended family, a decision that reflected Mike's love for those dearest to him. He had a soft spot for every dog he ever had, but nothing compared to the love he held for his family. Mike treasured time spent together, whether in the great outdoors, around the dinner table or simply sharing stories and laughter.
He will be remembered for his warmth, his strength and the passions he shared with all who knew him. Mike touched the lives of so many people and will be so missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Seaway Gun Club. The family plans to have a private celebration of life.
