Michael “Doc” May

In Loving Memory of Michael May

Mesa, AZ – It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Michael May, best known by his friends as “Doc”. Michael was a loving son, brother, and friend, who left this world too early on December 2, 2023. Born in Detroit in 1959, he was the eldest son to John May, who passed in 2016, and Joy May, who left us in 2020. Michael is survived by his little sister, Karen (Fred) of Ahwatukee and her children April Vigil (Keo) of Ahwatukee, and Kendra Liesinger (Adam) of Florence, AZ. It’s important to mention he looked forward to his conversations with his aunt, Alice Thompson of Fort Myers. Over the last decade the bond with his family became unbreakable, and that brought comfort to Michael in his final days.

Doc was proud to be from Detroit and made a fulfilling career as a bartender. Behind the counter, he blended his quick wit and cynical sense of humor to create a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. His ability to lift spirits with a well-timed joke or a sympathetic ear created many friendships. Doc was also an enthusiastic softball player and a fair-minded umpire. His love for sports not only kept him active and engaged, but also created lasting bonds with teammates and opponents alike. Doc had an unwavering support for his hometown sports teams and could very well be considered the most loyal Detroit Lions fan ever. Whether cheering in victory or weathering defeat, Michael stood by the Lions through thick and thin, reflecting the resilience that characterized his own journey through life.

Michael’s charismatic personality and authentic heart made an impact that extended far beyond the borders of Detroit. During retirement he created new Mesa friendships, but his greatest accomplishment was the bond he had with his loyal friends that span back to his days at Mound Park. His ability to use humor to connect with people, coupled with his (sometimes underlying) genuine kindness, left an indelible mark on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Michael “Doc” May will be remembered as a loyal friend, his love of laughter, and for the enduring mark he left on the hearts of all who had the privilege of calling him a friend or family. May Doc rest in peace, surrounded by the echoes of those who remember him fondly. “That’s All Folks”.

A private service to honor Michael’s life will be held at Gilbert Memorial Park, where he will be laid to rest alongside his parents and grandparents (Alphonse and Louise Howick) in Gilbert, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to assist with covering the funeral expenses.  Contributions can be sent to https://gofund.me/929c95bc