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Michael William Derocha

ELY TWP – Michael William Derocha, age 66, of Ely Township, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021, at his home.

Michael was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on January 17, 1955, a son of the late Clementine Pauline “Tina” (Rovedo) and William Harold Derocha.

Mike graduated from Ishpeming High School and went to NMU for business.

Mike was the proud owner of the 41 Steak House along with his wife by his side for 35 years. Michael married his wife and best friend Lana (Kelley) on May 18, 1991. Michael met a lot of people through his years in business and made many friends along the way. Mike recently worked at Econo Foods for the past 4 years in the meat department, part time, to keep him busy.

Mike loved going to Red Wings and Cubs games. He played hockey in the NHL- Negaunee Hockey League for many years and later officiated hockey. There wasn’t a sport he didn’t like. Motorcycling with his wife and friends was one of his many passions.

Mike is survived by his wife Lana, his children: Tanya (Anthony) Pihaylic, Brian (Angela) Bartle and Eric (Amber) Bartle, six grandchildren: Ethan, Joshua, Erica, Monica, Brandon, and Mia, he also leaves behind 3 brothers and a sister: Rodger (Carrie) Derocha, Paul Derocha, Joseph Derocha and Mary Catherine Crone, sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws: Lynn (Fred) Cox, Daniel (Lori) McVannel and Duane (Tina) McVannel and many close nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents: William and Tina Derocha.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 noon on Friday, March 5, 2021, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Ishpeming, with Fr. Ryan Ford officiating. Mike’s family will greet relatives and friends on Friday at St. Joseph Church from 10:00 am until the time of service at Noon.

The Mass will be livestreamed, which can be found at ishpemingca tholic.com/live, beginning at 11:55AM, on Friday, March 5, 2021.

Pallbearers will be William and Joseph Derocha, and grandchildren; Joshua, Erica, Monica and Brandon Bartle and Ethan Pihaylic.

The family would like to thank the first responders, EMT’s and Sheriff department.

Mike’s obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where his guestbook may be signed.