Michael Anthony Carley, 55, of Traverse City passed away Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at Munson Hospice House, in Traverse City

Michael was born in Reno, NV on Friday, April 1, 1960, one of two sons born to Beryl Jill and Charles Orland Carley. The family moved to Illinois where Michael graduated from Naperville Central High School and continued his education at the University of Illinois, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics. From this point on, Michael was a die-hard Illini fan. On Saturday, November 23, 1985, Michael married the love of his life, Joan Marie Wiercinski in Naperville, IL.

Michael spent nearly 30 years in government service, the last few years as a management analyst. He began his career in California, later being transferred first to South Carolina, then New York, Colorado and then to Traverse City, eleven years ago.

A lifelong Boy Scout, Michael achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in 1977. He had an unwavering belief in the organization and their ability to teach lifelong skills and solid values. As an adult scouter, he participated at all levels: from the Cub Scout pack to serving as a Council Executive Board Member. He received many awards, including the Silver Beaver Award, Vigil Honor, Order of the Arrow and the Founders Award. He visited Philmont Scout Ranch twice and was disappointed that he wasn't able to share the experience a third time with his son, who is also well on his way to attaining his Eagle award. Michael loved camping, hiking and backpacking. He believed in, and accomplished, lived each and every day by the Scout Oath and Law. During the last ten years, Michael took up running. He prided himself on working up from running 5K's to finishing two marathons. Michael was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where he enjoyed serving as a Eucharistic Minister. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Above all else, Michael's proudest moments were on the three days his children, Elizabeth, Emma and Michael, were born. He made it a point to attend as many school, sports or musical events that he could. He neither expected, nor accepted, anything less than their best effort at everything they do. This was his most important lesson.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Joan; his beloved children, Elizabeth, Emma and Michael; his Mom, Beryl Carley of Denton, TX; his brother, Jonathan (Melissa) Carley of Flower Mound, TX and his niece and nephew Meridith and Daniel Carley. Also surviving are his sisters-in-law, Mary Stephen of Lake in the Hills, IL; Karen (Andrew) Agoranos of Palatine, IL and his nieces and nephews, Katie and Brad Stephen and Andrew, Ava and Anna Agoranos. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Charles O. Carley and his father and mother-in-law Ward and Geraldine Wiercinski.

The family wishes to thank the caring, compassionate staff of Munson Oncology - Skyview, especially Dr. Joshua Ruch, Karen, Tina, Anna and Connie. They also wish to thank Munson Hospice and the Hospice House for making Michael's final days comfortable and peaceful. In addition, they are thankful for their many friends, near and far, for their unwavering support and kindness during Michael's journey. Michael fought this battle head on, with astounding bravery. He never gave up hope and he fought until the very end. His family's welfare was always his priority.

Visitation for Michael will take place from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, June 22 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 23 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with The Rev. Father Anthony Citro presiding. Visitation will begin at the church one hour prior to the service.

Rather than flowers, the family would like Michael remembered through memorial contributions to The American Cancer Society, The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or the Boy Scouts of America - President Gerald R. Ford Field Service Council.

Please share your memories of Michael as well as condolences with the family by visiting his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being cared for by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.