Michael Jay Beard

Michael Jay Beard, 77, of  Houghton Lake passed away on Sunday March 2, 2025 at Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital.

Michael was born on May 19, 1947 in Flint, Michigan to Jay and Zola(Chown) Beard . He grew up in the Genesee County area where he graduated from Genesee High School.  While in his first years of College following high school, Michael was drafted into the US Army and would spend the next two years serving his country, including one year in Vietnam.  Upon  his return from the Army, Michael, began his career with General Motors. He retired after 38 years with GM, and reaching the title of Skilled Trades Supervisor. Michael was married on February 7, 1970 in Genesee County to Maurine "Rena" Bondarenko, who preceded Michael in death in 2020. Following Michael's retirement the couple moved from Linden to Florida, and Michael returned to Houghton Lake 2 years ago, to remember the family time spent at their cottage on Higgins Lake when the children where growing up.  Michael enjoyed bowling, golf, and poker.  he was an all around handyman and enjoyed working with stained glass.  His special time was going fishing.
 
Surviving Mr. Beard are his two daughters, Shawn Marie Bunker of Davenport, FL, and Shannon (Todd Tilger) Dewaelsche of Swartz Creek; son, Shane (Yajaira Lopez-Beard) Beard of Franksville, Wisconsin; eight grandchildren, Jessica, Joshua, James, Kelcie, Giovanni, Angel, Jonathon, and Jayson: brother, Troy Beard; sister, Toni(John) Van Dongen; brother-in-law, Doug Klawuhn; several nieces and nephews; and Michael's significant other, Loretta Marinell.  Michael was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Clinton Beard; two sisters, Marsha Klawuhn, and Christine Caudill. 

A Celebration of Life Service for Michael Jay Beard will be conducted in the spring.  Memorial contributions in memory of Michael are asked to be directed to the Wounded Warrior's Project. Christler Funeral Home, Houghton Lake Chapel is serving the family. Condolences can be sent to the family online at www.christler-holdship.com 

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