Michael Carl Michaud

With a heart full of laughter and a spirit that could brighten even the gloomiest day, Michael Carl Michaud lived a life defined by love, kindness, and the kind of humor that left people groaning, but always grinning. Born on October 14, 1983, in Abbeville, Louisiana, Michael’s journey took him far and wide, touching countless hearts before he peacefully passed on June 6, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Michael was a husband, a son, a brother, a step-grandfather, and—perhaps most importantly—a master of Dad Jokes. His legendary one-liners had the power to make even the most serious moments a little lighter. If there was an Olympic event for “Best Groan-Inducing Punchline,” he surely would have taken gold.

But behind the humor was a man full of warmth, generosity, and respect for others. He carried a deep admiration for the elderly, seeing wisdom in their words and value in their experiences. His kindness was never performative; it was simply who he was.

Gaming wasn’t just a pastime for Michael it was a way to connect. Whether teaming up with friends for an epic battle or simply unwinding with a favorite game, it was more than just pixels on a screen; it was bonding time. He was more than a step-grandfather to Henry, Nathan, Taygen, Karmyn, Coraline, and Everest—he was a mentor, a friend, and a steady source of joy. His love extended to his nieces and nephews—Ava, Nolan, Ethan, Onna, and Emma—who always had an uncle who cared. To them, he was affectionately known as Pei Rei, a nickname that carried the warmth of their shared connection.

At the heart of his world was Cynthia, his beloved wife, his partner-in-crime, and his unwavering rock. Their love story, one that began in the digital world of IMVU, blossomed into fourteen years of companionship, including four years of marriage filled with laughter, adventure, and enough inside jokes to last a lifetime.

And then, of course, there was Lil’Bit his Starbucks-rescue calico who ruled Michael’s heart. She wasn’t just a pet; she was a confidante, an emotional support, and a fellow expert in the art of lounging.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife, Cynthia; his loving parents, Ulyssa (Lisa) and Elvin; His father Michael Nix his wonderful sisters, Brenna and Genesia; his adoring step-grandchildren who will forever carry his light—Henry, Nathan, Taygen, Karmyn, Coraline, and Everest. His nieces and nephews Jada, Rebecca, Audrey, Ava, Nolan, Ethan, Onna, and Emma will miss his teasing, his laughter, and the uncle who always had a joke (whether they wanted to hear it or not).

Michael had an exceptionally close bond with his youngest step-grandson, Henry. Their love for Minecraft and Pokémon made them inseparable, creating a world of shared adventures and joy. Henry’s heart aches for the loss of his grandfather, but he can hold onto the certainty that Michael was endlessly proud of him—his laughter, his brilliance, and the way he made every moment special.

Beyond his love for gaming, Michael had a passion for music, especially karaoke. He didn’t need an audience—just a song and the sheer joy of singing. He carried an endless catalog of lyrics in his heart, ready to belt out a tune at any moment. And when it came to stories, few things captured his imagination like Doctor Who, with the 10th Doctor holding a special place in his heart.

Michael was also immensely proud of his Cajun heritage—a true Coonass, through and through. His roots were woven into his humor, his values, and the way he carried himself with the kind of warmth and resilience that defined his spirit.

Though he may no longer be here in person, his legacy of kindness, humor, and love lives on. So, in his honor, let’s share a laugh, crack a joke (even if it’s a bad one), and remember a man who made the world a little brighter just by being himself.

Michael, you were one of a kind. And if heaven doesn’t already have a Dad Joke committee—well, they do now.