Lightner

Michael R. Lightner, 67, of Northville, Mich., passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 17, 2024, after having the perfect Father’s Day family vacation over the weekend.

He was born Jan. 4, 1957, in Grove City, Pa., the son of James and Edith (Rohr) Lightner. Michael was united in marriage to Margaret K. Lancaster on Jan. 19, 1980; they were lovingly devoted to one another for more than 44 years.

He grew up in Slippery Rock, then moved to Ypsilanti, Mich., where he met the love of his life, Margaret. After they were married, they made Northville their home for the last 36 years. The most important thing to Mike was his family. He expressed his love in many ways, especially by cooking delicious meals for his family, mostly from scratch and always better than the finest restaurants around. Family favorites included his spinach pie and beef Wellington, which took him hours to perfect. Mike knew his labor-intensive dishes would make his family happy.

While raising his boys, Mike encouraged them to stimulate their minds by reading to them and sharing any and every obscure fact he could find. He enjoyed playing euchre, word games, sudoku and games involving numbers that challenged his mind.

Everyone who came in contact with Mike, from lifelong friends to complete strangers, knew him to be caring, empathetic and honest. He was a quiet man; his laughter could burst out with a smile and an impish grin. He often had a twinkle in his eye, and always had a big bear hug when it was time to say goodbye. Road trips were among Mike’s favorite activities, especially when taking the scenic route. He had unforgettable adventures, like family camping, or trips with his wife to Costa Rica and Germany. Mike was well known for his generous hospitality, hosting family and friends for holidays and major sporting events.

Mike’s faith was a significant part of his life. As a member of the First United Methodist Church, he was a dedicated Stephen Minister, teaching others about Christ's love and how to support people in times of need. He consistently put others' needs before his own, embodying the roles of a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, teacher and friend. Mike adored his grandchildren, and the joy they brought him was immeasurable.

He graduated from Slippery Rock Area High School with the Class of 1974. Mike earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration, graduating summa cum laude from Eastern Michigan University. Years later, he returned to school to obtain multiple teaching certificates from Oakland University and Lawrence Tech, where he studied education technology.

Mike started his career at a software development firm called EDS, working as their systems analyst team lead. Later in life, he discovered a new passion for teaching. Incredibly intelligent, he inspired young minds through teaching math and English for Northville Public Schools, until his retirement in 2010. Mike’s most important role between careers was raising his three boys. He took great pride in being a devoted stay-at-home father, leaving his career behind to support his wife in hers, and took care of his three sons from infancy.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret; his sons, Ben (Haeley B.) Lightner, Austin (Stella) Lightner and Nathan (Hali A.) Lightner; his siblings, Doris Lightner, Ron Lightner and Sherri McChesney; and his grandchildren, Arlo, Presley, Maisy and baby girl Lightner, due in November.

He was preceded in death by his father, James; his mother, Edith; his brother, Robert; his sister-in-law, Sharon; his niece, Julie; and his niece, Michele.

LIGHTNER — Visitation for Michael R. Lightner, who died Monday, June 17, 2024, will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 28, 2024 at CASTERLINE FUNERAL HOME, 122 West Dunlap, Northville, Mich. A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 29, 2024, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. Sarah Wheatley, from the First United Methodist Church, will officiate the service. Michael will be laid to rest at Rural Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Michigan Humane, 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, MI 48025, or the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.

Please share condolences at www.casterlinefuneralhome.com.

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