Michael Ralph Best

Michael Ralph Best, 66, of Jones, died peacefully, Saturday morning, April 13, 2024 in the comfort of his home in his family’s presence.

His life began July 12, 1957 in Niles, Michigan born to Dave Best and Joan Kane.

Mike loved riding his motorcycle.  He was self-taught mechanic that could fix anything.  From cars and trucks to lawnmowers and chainsaws; if it had a motor he could fix it.  He enjoyed making his own beer and wine.  He was very proud of his boys and their achievements.

He lived life by his own rules and was a free bird.

Mike will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by the love of his life, Tami Owen of Jones; three sons, Josh Best of Michigan, Jeremy Best of Vandalia, Troy Best of Monroe; daughter, Sandra Jo Merckley of Dowagiac; his father, Dave (Bobbie) Best of Cassopolis; five grandchildren, Dylan, Darrin, Rylie, Ashley, Haley; sisters, Cindy Best of Virginia, Julie (Ricky) Hall of Wyoming, Penny Patterson of Niles, Joni (Dave) Black of South Bend, Indiana; brothers, Dave Best, Jr. of Vandalia, Adam Best of Bridgman; sisters-in-law, Cheri Martine, Candy Mack, both of Cassopolis; brother -in-law, Bill Owen of Dowagiac; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his infant son, Cory Best; his mother, Joan Kane, his brother, Joseph Best; sisters-in-law, Laila Taylor, Hazel Gert Cooper, Wendy Owen; brother-in-law, Bob Owen; his niece, Kelli Binns; and his nephew, Jeff Owen.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Mike be made to a GoFundMe account made in his name to help defray expenses, via the following: https://www.gofundme.com/f/mike-best?qid=f9b27f46f6ddb1a110fed92d70a100c0.    

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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