Michael Gene Corthals

Michael Gene Corthals, known affectionately as Mike to those who loved him, passed away on May 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy rich with passion, dedication, and an unmistakable spirit. Born on February 20, 1948, in the quiet town of Alpena, Michigan, Mike’s life unfolded against the backdrop of the familiar streets and landscapes that shaped his early years and nurtured his many interests.

A product of Alpena High School, Mike’s journey was one of both steady commitment and inspired transformation. For many years, he devoted himself to a career at Fletcher Paper, where he contributed with loyal and steady hands. Yet, it was not until later that Mike truly found the calling that ignited his soul — the art of taxidermy. Emerging as a master of his craft, he became renowned for his exceptional skill, turning the delicate dance between life and preservation into a remarkable showcase of artistry. His work was more than technical ability; it was a testament to respect for the natural world and a celebration of its enduring beauty.

Beyond his professional life, Mike was a man whose passions extended into the wild and peaceful corners of the outdoors. An avid hunter, he found in the forests and fields a place of communion and tradition. Fishing offered him moments of quiet reflection by waters teeming with life, while gardening allowed him to nurture growth and behold the cycles of nature firsthand. These hobbies were not mere pastimes but essential parts of his being, each reflecting a profound connection to the earth.

Mike was born to the late Alfred and Theresa (Sobczak) Corthals, carrying their legacy forward with quiet strength and warmth. His family was the cornerstone of his life, resonating with shared memories, laughter, and enduring bonds. He is survived by a loving circle of siblings: Peggy (Charles Sr.) Bates, Mary Jane (Dennis) Partlo, Mark (Karen Scott) Corthals, Cindy Sucharski, and Denise (Robert) Downing. Alongside them are several nieces and nephews who will carry forward the stories and spirit of “Uncle Mike” in the years to come.

He was preceded in death by cherished family members who remain in our hearts: his sister and brother-in-law Kathy (Ken) Goudy, brother-in-law Leo Sucharski, sister-in-law Linda Corthals, and brother-in-law Ron Scheske and several nephews and a niece. Their memories intertwine with his, forming a tapestry of love and remembrance that connects past and present.

As we prepare to celebrate Mike’s life, the gathering will take place on June 6, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the A.E. Ross Funeral Home, 516 W Chisholm St, Alpena, MI 49707. It is there that friends and family will come together, embracing the stories, the laughter, and the unspoken bonds that defined this remarkable man. Interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to Hunters Harvest 2762 South Third Avenue Alpena, MI. 49707