Michael Cruse Obituary

Michael E. "Big Mike" Cruse

Mar 7, 1950 - Jan 28, 2025

Sandusky

Michael Edward Cruse, affectionately known as "Mike" or "Big Mike," left this world as gently as he lived in it, easing away in his sleep Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Born March 7, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Mike's journey through life was one filled with love, laughter, and the pursuit of knowledge, concluding in Cleveland, Ohio. His departure has left an indelible mark on those who had the pleasure of crossing his path.

Mike's life was rich in relationships and achievements. He experienced the joy of companionship with his beloved wife, Dr. Valerie A. Cruse, whom he married May 6, 1995, in Detroit, Michigan. Together, they built a life of mutual respect and unwavering support. He was a treasured patriarch, leaving behind a legacy in his granddaughter, Shelby C. Cruse, who eagerly anticipates the arrival of her daughter, Anastasia. His grandson, Daniel Gulley, carries on his grandeur from Mobile, Alabama. Mike was also the proud family anchor to his mother-in-law, Juanita W. Singleton, nearing a century in Westland, Michigan, and his siblings, Evelyn Kathy (Anthony) Richardson of Detroit, Michigan, and Gloria Parham, sister-in-law of Romulus, Michigan. His brother-in-law, Leighton Singleton, from Conyers, Georgia, alongside a cascade of nieces and nephews, will each treasure their unique memories with him.

Mike's warmth as a father extended to his stepchildren, Quita Gulley, Theodius Hawkins, and LaShawn Strickland, whom he embraced with open arms and a generous heart. His family tree branched out to include his great-nephews in Phoenix, Arizona, and his grandsons in Ypsilanti and Belleville, Michigan. His special cousin, Clement (Tanya) Grady, along with a host of other family and friends, will miss his presence profoundly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cora (Grady) Truly, John Cruse, stepfather; Victor Truly; children, Lisa and Adrian Cruse; brother, Patrick; uncles; Nick, Buddy, and Clement Grady.

His life's journey was one of continuous growth and learning. A proud graduate of Northern in 1968, Mike furthered his education with a year at Ohio Business College and pursued courses in electrical work. His professional life was dedicated to Chevrolet Forge before he seized an opportunity with Delphi in Sandusky in 1994, culminating in a well-deserved retirement in 2001. Mike's work ethic was not just a personal trait but a gift to his community, as demonstrated by his 33-year commitment to GM as a weighmaster, inspector, and hi-lo driver. His dedication to UAW Local 913 showcased his belief in collective strength and fairness.

Mike's curiosity and intelligence led him to master the art of building computers alongside a cherished friend. His adeptness at solving a gamut of problems made him the go-to person for many. His interests were as expansive as his personality-playing baseball, bowling, and football; engaging with music and automobiles; delving into electronics, computers, and board games; indulging in reading, crossword puzzles, and the news; and relishing the sports he watched more than played.

To describe Mike is to speak of love, humor, and intelligence-a man whose life was a testament to the power of laughter, the pursuit of knowledge, and the infinite reach of love.

His legacy is not just in his bloodline but in the lives he touched, the problems he solved, and the laughter he shared.

We honor Mike, not in mourning his departure, but in celebrating the way he lived: fully, with a heart wide open and a mind ever curious. His was a life well-lived, a story well-told, and a journey well-traveled. May his memory serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all to live with zest, to laugh heartily, and to love without bounds. Mike's story does not end here; it lives on in every life he touched, every problem he solved, and every joy he shared. Rest in peace, Big Mike; your legacy is immortal.

Friends may call from 10-12 p.m. Monday, February 10, 2025, at Eagles Nest Church International, 2126 Pipe Street, Sandusky, with the funeral service immediately following at noon. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery, Sandusky.

Memorial contributions may be made directly at Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870 to assist the family with funeral expenses.

Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, is handling arrangements. Condolences may be shared online at toftfuneralhome.com.