Michael A. Somervell, 79
Devoted Family Man, Outdoorsman, and Faithful Servant of the Church
Michael "Mike" A. Somervell, age 79, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Mike was the son of the late Edward and Florence Somervell.
In 1966, Mike married the love of his life, Nancy, and together they built a home filled with faith, love, and laughter. He was a proud and devoted father to Andrew, Patrick (Kelly Gazzeny), and Kathleen (Christopher) Black. One of his greatest joys in life was being "Poppie" to his granddaughters, Ava and Allyssa, who brought him endless pride and happiness.
Mike is also survived by his beloved siblings Christine (Michael) Dick, Connie (Ed) Felice, and Greg (Jerri) Somervell. He was preceded in death by his brothers Ed and Lewis.
An avid outdoorsman, Mike found solace in nature and enjoyed hunting and fishing with his boys and best friend Richard O'Leary, his son Tim and his grandson Aaron throughout his life. He had a deep love of music and was a gifted builder and carpenter. Always generous with his time and talents, Mike was the first to lend a hand when someone needed help—whether it was building a deck, repairing a roof, building a house or simply offering support.
Mike's life was centered around his family and his deep Catholic faith. On October 1, 2005, he was ordained a deacon in the Archdiocese of Detroit. He served faithfully at St. William Church in Walled Lake and Holy Spirit Church in Highland, where he ministered to his community with compassion, humility, and a servant's heart.
He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his quiet strength, his commitment to service, and his profound love for those around him. Mike touched many lives and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and faithfulness.
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River, Novi, with a Knights of Columbus Rosary at 6:00 p.m.
A gathering of family and friends will take place at Holy Spirit Church, 3700 Harvey Lake Road, on Monday at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Liturgy at 11:00 a.m.
In consideration of family asthma and allergies, the family kindly requests no flowers. Instead, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an organization close to Mike's heart. www.stjude.org
Mike's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.