Donald Joseph Michael, M.D.

Donald Joseph Michael, 65, of South Bend, Beloved father of Alexis Laura Michael; Beloved grandfather of Madison Rose Michael; Beloved grandfather to his grandcat, Tiny Michael; Beloved long-time companion of Susan Voelker; Beloved husband of the late Elizabeth Schafer; Beloved father of adopted son, Frederick J. Decker; Beloved brother of adopted sister and dear friend, Rosaline Sokoloskis; Beloved brother of Peter Bader Michael, the late Bernard Michael, his hero and role model, and the late Shirley Michael; Beloved son of the late Michael John Michael and the late Mary Mae Peters; Beloved Uncle to many; Beloved Cousin to many; Beloved friend to many; Beloved doctor of patients from all 50 states, and over 2 dozen countries, died unexpectedly on August 25, 2012 from a massive aneurysm in the brain stem. (Likely a genetic defect with which he was born.)

A model of perfect health, Dr. Michael likely extended his life several decades with natural supplementation- from the neck down, he looked better than most 20-year-olds. (He would tell you to visit www.mercola.com and www.blaylockreport.com; his top 5 supplement suggestions would be vitamin C, fish oil, vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics.)

His organ donations (possible because Susan was by his side during his aneurysm) helped save and extend the lives of 64 people, 2 of which will get the gift of sight with his cornea donations, and 4 of which were in hospitals, dying, while waiting for organs. (He would tell you to make sure you have a living will, and to make sure your family knows you want to be an organ donor.)

Dr. Michael loved to read, often with his beloved companion or to his granddaughter, garden, exercise, and talk and laugh with his daughter. He was passionate about his medical practice and helping his patients gain the maximum health and satisfaction from their lives. He gave away substantial pro bono treatment and time to patients who could not afford his services. He did not have a mean bone in his body, and his entire life was dedicated to helping others. His daughter often referred to him as a walking saint, and on Thursday she will bury her lifelong best friend, mentor, and hero.

Friends may spend time with Dr. Michael’s family Thursday, August 30, from 10 am - 1pm in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka. Services celebrating his life will begin at 1 pm in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka. www.goethalswells.com

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Logan Center. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.

Please leave your thoughts at donald-michael.virtual-memorials.com