Michael Joseph Blake

Michael Joseph Blake of Escanaba passed peacefully on March 5, 2026, at Pinecrest Medical Care Facility at the age of 78.  He was born on December 3, 1947, to Michael Henry Bialik and Jean Marie (Ward) Bialik at the Fort Custer Army Base in Battle Creek, Michigan.  He spent the first 2 and ½ years of his life in Yokohama, Japan while his father was serving in the Army of Occupation.

Michael attended Detroit Catholic Central High School, graduating in 1965.  He continued his education at Michigan State University and graduated in 1969 with a BA in Education.  Upon graduation, Michael was inducted into the army during the Vietnam War and served until he was honorably discharged in 1971.  After returning from service, he taught English in the Detroit Public Schools before attending the University of Detroit Law School and receiving his Juris Doctorate in 1975.  Michael practiced law in Canton, Michigan for many years.  Later in his career, he returned to teaching in Port St. Lucie, Florida as a high school special needs instructor.  He retired to Gladstone in 2009 to help care for his elderly parents.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his brother Paul (Pam) Bialik, nieces Kristen (Aaron) Handsman, Kayla (Evan) Lindell, Jennifer (Jacob) Peterson and many great-nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

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