Michael Pawloski

Michael Pawloski was born on February 4, 1963 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was the youngest of 10 children. 

Mike had a life-long passion for music. In childhood he listened to his Mother playing guitar - cherishing her rendition of ‘You Are My Sunshine’. Being a phenomenal bass, harmonica, and guitar player, he was in many bands throughout the years: ‘Mr. WhooHa’, ‘Black Pearl’, ‘Stellar’, ‘Tipsy and the Kickstands’, ‘Free Wheelin’, and his solo project, ‘Mike Key Music’. He dabbled in abstract art and created a series of paintings. Mike also enjoyed Stop Motion Animation, creating a couple of short films as well as a music video to his song ‘People’ which aired on GRTV. Mike was also a proud member of The Grand Rapids Media Company. He often worked the camera at the annual Jammies Music Awards. 

Mike worked at Roman Manufacturing for 44 years. Doing multiple positions throughout the years. Starting out on the line, he worked his way up to Head of Shipping and Receiving - Saving the company thousands of dollars annually by recycling and reusing materials. He also designed various shipping containers there. 

Mike died on January 19, 2026. Proceeded in death by parents Eleanor and Edward Pawloski, siblings James (Dawn), Mary Jean, and Carol. He is survived by his two children Dove and Lyric, as well as his loving partner, Heather. He was also survived by six sisters: Donna, Rose (Jim), Lou (Jaime), Kaye (Darrell), Nancy (Ron), and Sophie (Jim) as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. 

The celebration of life will be February 23rd from 5-8pm at Broadleaf Brewery and Spirits in Kentwood.