Michael Harry Grimsley

Michael Harry Grimsley was killed on his motorcycle on November 2, 2023, at the age of 52.

A self-described "work in progress,” Michael was born on September 12, 1971 to Robert Grimsley and Irene Evelyn Clarke in Farmington Hills.

Michael grew up with a love of all sports, especially football. He was an avid supporter of the University of Michigan football team, and the Detroit Lions- through thick and thin. Michael also played football during his high school years at Farmington Hills Harrison, where his team won the State championship at the Pontiac Silverdome. Michael attended Eastern Michigan University after high school.

First and foremost, Michael was a family man. His family began with his marriage to Lisa Marie Penny on February 19, 2000. Michael and Lisa welcomed their first child Lyla in 2003, and Avery in 2004. Outnumbered by a bunch of gals, Michael thrived in his role as husband and father. He enjoyed spoiling his ‘not my cat', Stinky, and his dog Tucker. Michael also liked to sing funny songs to his wife and kids, and occasionally his pets- he was an unashamed goofball.

Michael was a very skilled scuba diver, a love he shared with his wife, Lisa. They dove together often, starting on their honeymoon in Maui. Michael loved all things Mario Brothers, playing often with his kids. He liked camping with his family and fishing.

Michael was known for his compassion, generosity and his humbleness. He had an amazing ability to retain facts, whether it be obscure sports stats, or anyone's birthday. Michael not only remembered the day, he remembered the year too, which let everyone lucky enough to meet him, know how much they mattered. A very special trait his friends and family will hold close to their hearts and miss dearly.

Michael was a quiet comedian, with impeccable timing, as well as an awesome impressionist. He was adept at mimicking Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, though a family favorite was his Scottish Lord accent.

Generous to a fault, Michael was quick to help friends and family, rain or shine, whenever he was needed. Never one to accept any thanks or gratitude, Michael’s reply was simply, “no biggie.” To everyone he helped, it was definitely a “BIGGIE.”

As for Michael being a “work in progress,” his friends and family knew exactly who he was…an amazing family man who really was perfect in an imperfect way. He will be missed tremendously.

Michael was employed by Smede-Son Steel in Redford for the past 8 years.

Michael is survived by his wife, Lisa Grimsley of Monroe, MI, his daughters, Lyla and Avery, and his siblings, Bobby Grimsley and Penny Umlah, as well as several in-laws and friends lucky enough to be a part of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Noel Brown and, recently, Robert (Beeper) Brown and his sister, Theresa Grimsley.

Michael’s celebration of life will take place on December 2, 2023 from 1 pm – 4 pm at the VFW hall, 400 Jones Ave, Monroe, MI, 48161. Please come and share your memories with everyone and wear your favorite Detroit Lions/ Tigers/U of M fan gear. Note: If you must support another team, please wear your fan gear anyway, so we can mock you. You have been warned.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Michael's GoFundMe https://gofund.me/9868c094