Michael Joseph Kotz

Mike Kotz, age 54, of Petoskey, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 26, 2025, after battling numerous strokes and pneumonia.

Born in Allen Park, Michigan, on July 6, 1971, Mike was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful friend, and a shining example of Christ’s love in action. His favorite verses were Matthew 5:14–16. Mike delighted in sharing Christ’s light with the world, and his life was lit by The Lamp of the World. Mike shared eight and a half wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Holly, his best friend of 35 years. Together, they built a life filled with faith, laughter, and service.

Mike had a servant’s heart. He showed the light of Jesus through his kindness and generosity: volunteering at The Nehemiah Project (a local homeless shelter), cooking for friends and family, and lovingly preparing meals at Emmanuel Evangelical Church, along with serving on EEC's Safety Team. His deep love for food and family traditions inspired his creation of Lost Village Pierogi, where he and Holly joyfully shared the warmth of homemade comfort and the stories that came with it.

Mike lived his faith daily, finding purpose in helping others and glorifying God in all he did. His warm smile, unmatched humor, roaring laughter, and unwavering compassion left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. Mike was known for sharing “brotherly love” with everyone he met. He was generous with his giving, both of his time and his talents.

Of all Mike’s roles, none brought him greater joy than being “Boom Boom” to his granddaughter Charlotte, who was the light of his life. His family was his greatest blessing, and his legacy of love will live on in their hearts forever. His zeal for life was built on the Solid Rock of Jesus Christ, and we praise God for Mike’s life.

Mike is survived by his wife, Holly; his children, Grace and Gabe Rhinehart; and his cherished granddaughter, Charlotte; along with his father Michael Patrick Kotz, sister Melissa (Matt) Cormendy and brother Nick (Karen) Kotz, many nieces and nephews, as well as aunts, uncles cousins and dear friends who will miss him deeply. He was preceded in death by his mother, Maria Kotz.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at Emmet County Fairgrounds Community Building on November 15 at noon, with Pastor Mark Drinkall officiating.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to make donations directly to Holly Kotz (in care of Emmanuel Evangelical Church, 620 Emmet St. Petoskey, MI 49770) or through their GoFundMe page (link provided below).

Though our hearts ache, we rejoice knowing that Mike is now in the presence of his Savior, where there is no more pain, only peace and eternal joy.