Michael J. Perrelli, Sr.

Michael Joseph Perrelli, Sr., devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished great grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on August 15, 2025. Born on February 14, 1949, in Lansing, Michigan, he was the son of the late George and Anna Perrelli. Michael grew up in a lively household, surrounded by his siblings: Georgiana Perrelli, Mona Perrelli, George Perrelli, and Frank Perrelli. He was preceded in death by his brother Guy Perrelli. From a young age, Michael understood the value of family, a value he would carry and live by for the rest of his life. His world changed forever the day he met Teresa “Terry”, the girl who would become his everything. They met as teenagers at the Oberlin playground, and it was love at first sight. Terry’s siblings often joked that she started taking them to the park much more often after that day. From that moment on, Michael and Terry were rarely apart. Terry remembers telling a close friend she knew it was love as soon as they met. Their connection was instant and pure and extraordinary. The kind of love that many dream of but few are lucky enough to find. They married on November 4, 1966, and spent nearly 60 beautiful years side by side. Their love was the kind that didn’t need to be spoken to be understood. It was in their shared glances, quiet laughter, and lifelong companionship. They were true soulmates, partners in every sense, walking through life hand in hand. Whether they were raising their children, working hard, enjoying the outdoors, or simply sitting side by side in silence, they were happiest just being together. In every photo, every memory, and every moment, there was always Mike and Terry, together. They raised two children: Laurie Ann Perrelli (Vest) born in 1967 and Michael Joseph Perrelli, Jr., born in 1970. Michael was a proud and present father, and later a devoted grandfather to six grandchildren and an adoring great grandfather to an abundance of great grandchildren who lit up his world. Michael worked for Fruehauf Trucking, Best and Pohl Corporation, earning the respect of his coworkers and the pride of his family. Outside of work, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life, golfing, fishing, camping, snowmobiling and always with Terry by his side. Family traditions meant everything to Michael. He looked forward to the holidays: preparing homemade peanut butter eggs, baking Easter bread, or roasting the Thanksgiving turkey. These weren’t just meals or recipes. They were acts of love, ways to bring the family together and pass on something meaningful. Michael lived a long and meaningful life surrounded by love, shaped by his deep connection to family, and guided by a marriage that truly mirrored one of life’s greatest blessings. His presence, his love, and his legacy will never be forgotten. A private celebration of life will be held to honor his life and the deep love he shared with all who knew him.

Michael J. Perrelli, Sr.

February 14, 1949 - August 15, 2025