Michael Thomas Kustra Obituary

Michael Thomas Kustra, known lovingly as Big Mike, passed away unexpectedly on June 17, 2026, at the age of 74.

He was born on September 4, 1951, in Bay City, Michigan, to the late Frank and Helen (Plodzinski) Kustra. Michael lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and a deep appreciation for the people around him. He was a loving, faith-filled, and generous man whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to his family and friends. Those who knew him will remember his kind spirit, his easy smile, and his gift for making others feel welcome in his company.

Michael was a devoted Catholic and attended numerous Masses throughout the area. His church community meant a great deal to him, and he valued the fellowship and camaraderie that came with being part of it. His faith was an important part of his life and guided the way he treated others, always with kindness, respect, and sincerity. He appreciated a good conversation and enjoyed the simple pleasure of spending time with people, listening, sharing stories, and being present in the moment.

Michael retired from Enbridge after a long career of 35 years' operating heavy equipment. He took pride in his work and was known for his reliability and dedication throughout his years there. His strong work ethic and steady nature were evident in all he did, and he earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. His long career reflected the same commitment and dependability that he brought to every part of his life.

Michael enjoyed traveling, hunting, dining out, and visiting with others. He loved the company of people and found joy in the moments spent in conversation and companionship. Most of all, he cherished time with his family, especially his adored grandchildren, who brought him great happiness and pride. His love for his family was unwavering, and he treasured every opportunity to be with them and share in their lives.

He is survived by his loving son, Christopher Kustra and his wife Jessica, and his adored grandchildren, Eleanor, Josephine, Reagan, and Charlotte. He is also survived by his siblings, Gilbert (Nancy) Kustra, John (Kathy) Kustra, Greg Kustra, and Paul (Joyce) Kustra, as well as his sister-in-law Doris Kustra. He also leaves behind his stepchildren, Jamie (Vince) Tarantini, and Scott Sampson, along with several nieces and nephews who will hold his memory close. Michael was preceded in death by his siblings Leonard Kustra, Mary Stawasz and her husband Chet, Frank Kustra, Carolyn Kustra, and Joan Page and her husband Bill. Their memory remained an important part of his family story, and he now joins them in eternal rest.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 11 am from the Resurrection of the Lord Church with Rev. Fr. Thomas Held presiding with burial in St. Mary's Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may visit the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home on Tuesday, from 5 to 7 p.m. On Wednesday, friends may visit the church from 10 am until time of mass.