Michael Jay Stalsonburg, age 74, of Allendale, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

There are men who move through this world quietly, yet leave an unmistakable, lingering warmth wherever they step. Michael Jay Stalsonburg was one of those rare souls.

Anchored in a deep, abiding faith in God and an unwavering devotion to his family, Michael lived his life with a clear, steady purpose. His faith was not just something he spoke about; it was the bedrock of his character, guiding his steps, his kindness, and his heart every single day. Family was his ultimate priority, and at the absolute center of his world was his profound love for his wife, Donnis. The devotion he carried for her was constant, beautiful, and the true heartbeat of their home.

Michael was a good and solid man—the kind who made the world feel safer just by being in it. He possessed a rare, instinctual hospitality and an open door that never locked out someone in need. To know Michael was to know a safe harbor; he gave shelter, warmth, and belonging freely, reflecting God's love through his actions without pretense or expectation.

He had the mind of a creator and the patient hands of a true craftsman. With a gifted spirit for problem-solving, he brought beauty, purpose, and life to everything he built and touched. Yet, his soul was most at home under the open sky. An avid outdoorsman, Michael found his deepest peace in the quiet wonder of God's creation—by the water with a fishing rod in hand, resting at a campsite, or watching the sun set over a life well and honorably lived.

The true measure of a man is the love he leaves behind and the lives he elevated simply by being himself. Michael leaves a legacy of quiet strength, steady faith, and unforgettable grace. To those who loved him, he was everything. To those who never had the chance to meet him, his story remains an inspiring reminder of what it truly means to be a good man.

"His memory lives on in our hearts. A life well-lived and honorably remembered."

He was preceded in death by his son, Eric Stalsonburg; and father, Harry Stalsonburg. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Donnis Stalsonburg; children, Michelle Gleason and David “Skip” Poel, Meridith Stalsonburg, Melanie Augustyn and Jay DeJonge, Melinda Vereeke; grandchildren, Carter Gleason, Madelyn and Gage Brouwer, Violet Augustyn, Evan Vereeke, and Treydon Vereeke; mother, Ruth Stalsonburg; sister, Nancy Comis; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Debra and Pete Hansen; and his loving nieces and nephews. 

An open house to celebrate Michael’s life will be held on Monday, August 10, from 5-8 p.m. at The Stalsonburg Family Home, 12160 74th Ave., Allendale, MI 49401. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.