Michael Jay Hood's Obituary
Michael Jay Hood, age 58, of Spring Lake passed away Tuesday, October 14, 2008, at his home after a short, courageous fight with cancer. Mike was born July 21, 1950 in Grand Haven to Robert Jay and Helen Theresa (Hartman) Hood, and he married the former Jan Louise VanderMeulen on January 25, 1975 in Spring Lake.
Michael served his Country during the Vietnam War with the United States Army. He was formerly employed by the U.S. Post Office as a mail carrier until his retirement in July of 2006 after thirty two years. Michael also assisted at Wirick’s Office Supply and for Ottawa County with the Parks System and a driver for Gage Motor Mall. He volunteered for many years coaching for the Tri Cities Little League and volunteered for the Spring Lake Baseball and Softball Programs. Michael was a member of the American Legion Charles A. Conklin Post #28, and the Eagles Lodge. Michael enjoyed golf, fast pitch softball as a member of Norm’s softball team, Notre Dame sports, all Detroit sports teams, the beach, biking, walking, and especially his granddaughter Ella.
He is survived by his wife of thirty-three years, Jan; his daughter Quinn (Jeffrey) Steendam of Rockford; his son; Justin Hood of Spring Lake and girlfriend, Dana Gifford; his grand-daughter, Ella; two sisters, Laura (William) Viening of Parma, OH, and Kristen Benningfield of Issaquah, WA; his brother Patrick (Chris) Hood of Grand Haven, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Jay and Helen Theresa (Hartman) Hood.
The service for Michael will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2008, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Grand Haven with Rev. William Langlois as celebrant. Friends may meet the family on Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad in Spring Lake. Interment will be in the Spring Lake Township Cemetery. Military honors will be provided under the auspices of the American Legion Charles A. Conklin Post #28. Memorials in Michael’s name to Hospice of North Ottawa Community, http://www.noch.org/hospice.html, or the Educational Fund for his granddaughter Ella are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael Jay?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael Jay?
Share a story where Michael Jay's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael Jay you’ll never forget.
How did Michael Jay make you smile?