Michigan Death – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Hodge, a well-respected and beloved member of the Delton, Michigan community, whose life was tragically cut short after a battle with dementia. Mike, as he was known to friends and colleagues, was found dead days after walking away from his home, leaving his family, friends, and the community in shock and mourning. His passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him and had the privilege of working alongside him.
Mike Hodge’s death is not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a poignant reminder of the impact that dementia can have on individuals and their loved ones. His long-time friend and political colleague, Gary Mitchell, shared the heartbreaking news and expressed deep sorrow over the loss, offering both a tribute to Mike’s memory and an honest reflection on the challenges of dealing with the illness.
Mike Hodge Delton, Michigan Death: Micheal Hodge Found Dead In Michigan
Mike Hodge was a distinguished attorney and a trusted legal counsel who made significant contributions to Michigan’s political landscape. He was perhaps best known for his role as legal counsel to former Michigan Governor James Blanchard, a position that placed him at the center of state politics during one of the most pivotal periods in Michigan’s modern history. Throughout his career, Mike was known for his sharp legal mind, his integrity, and his ability to navigate the often complex world of government and law.
Mike’s political career spanned many years, and he was deeply involved in campaigns and elections, offering counsel to politicians and contributing to the legislative process. It was in this context that Mike formed a strong and lasting friendship with Gary Mitchell, a fellow political figure. Their shared passion for Michigan’s political landscape, as well as their mutual respect for each other’s work, helped shape a friendship that endured long after their professional paths diverged.
Gary Mitchell, who worked in the State Senate while Mike was serving as legal counsel to Governor Blanchard, remembered Mike not only as a colleague but as a close friend. “Mike’s wisdom, advice, and counsel were invaluable to me throughout our work together,” Mitchell shared in his tribute to Mike. “I learned so much about campaigns and elections from him. His ability to analyze situations, offer thoughtful opinions, and guide others was second to none.”
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Their friendship extended beyond the confines of political life, and it was their shared love for golf that gave them a chance to bond outside of work. Every Wednesday after the workday ended, Mike and Gary would meet on the golf course as part of their MSU Golf League. It was a tradition they maintained for years, finding respite in the game and enjoying each other’s company. For Gary, this weekly tradition was a cherished part of his life and something that, even in Mike’s absence, will always remind him of the friendship they shared.
In the years leading up to his death, Mike Hodge faced a devastating health challenge: dementia. As the disease gradually took hold of him, it affected not only his cognitive abilities but also his personality and daily functioning. His friends and family watched helplessly as Mike, once a vibrant and sharp-minded individual, began to experience the heartbreaking effects of the disease.
Dementia is a condition that strips away the essence of a person, and in Mike’s case, it was a slow and painful process. According to Gary Mitchell, who has firsthand experience with a loved one suffering from the same illness, Mike’s decline was particularly difficult to witness. “My wife is suffering from the same illness, and it has been incredibly challenging for both of us,” Mitchell reflected. “Seeing Mike go through the same struggle made it all the more painful to accept his passing.”
In a tragic turn of events, Mike Hodge went missing from his Delton home several days before he was found dead. His disappearance prompted an extensive search, with neighbors, local authorities, and community members coming together in an effort to locate him. While Mike’s movements were somewhat unclear in the days leading up to his disappearance, a post from one of his neighbors provided additional details about his activities and the search efforts.
The search for Mike, although ultimately unsuccessful, demonstrated the tight-knit nature of the Delton community and the love and concern that his friends and neighbors had for him. It also highlighted the challenges faced by families and communities when a loved one with dementia goes missing—challenges that are compounded by the disease’s impact on memory, judgment, and behavior.
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Despite his illness, Mike Hodge remained a person whose character and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Beyond his legal and political career, Mike was a devoted husband, father, and friend. His compassion for others was evident in the way he interacted with those around him. He was always willing to offer a helping hand, provide advice, or simply be a listening ear. His generosity and loyalty were qualities that made him stand out in both his personal and professional life.
Gary Mitchell’s tribute to Mike paints a picture of a man who was not only a skilled attorney and political adviser but also a devoted friend who understood the value of support and camaraderie. “Mike was a constant source of strength for those who knew him,” Mitchell wrote. “Whether it was at work, on the golf course, or in personal matters, Mike was always there for me. His friendship was a gift, and I will miss him dearly.”
In the face of his illness, Mike’s family, friends, and colleagues rallied around him, offering care and compassion in his final years. For those who knew him, it was not just his professional accomplishments that defined his legacy, but his personal qualities—his kindness, his humor, and his unwavering support for the people he loved.
Mike Hodge’s death leaves a profound impact on the Delton community, where he was a familiar and respected figure. The grief felt by his family, friends, and colleagues is compounded by the tragic nature of his passing. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him, especially those who were close to him in his later years.
Gary Mitchell, in his heartfelt tribute, asked that people keep Mike and his family in their thoughts and prayers. “Please light a candle for Mike, if you can, and remember the good times we shared together,” he wrote. “His legacy will live on in the memories of his friendship, his wisdom, and the love he showed to all of us.”
As the community of Delton comes to terms with the loss of Mike Hodge, they take solace in the knowledge that his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. Mike’s legacy, both as a professional and as a friend, will live on through the stories shared, the lessons learned, and the love he gave to those around him.
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Michael Hodge’s passing is a devastating loss, both to the political and legal community and to the people who knew him as a friend and mentor. His battle with dementia may have taken him from us too soon, but his impact on the lives of those who loved him will never be forgotten. In remembering Mike, we honor not just his career and accomplishments, but the kind of person he was—generous, wise, and deeply caring.
To his family and friends, especially his long-time golf partner Gary Mitchell, we offer our condolences and our thoughts during this difficult time. May Mike Hodge rest in peace, and may his legacy of service, friendship, and love continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
