Michael Joseph Luckow Jr.

Michael Joseph Luckow, Jr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, at 2:04 p.m. at Angela Hospice in Waterford, Michigan. He faced life—and its challenges—with quiet courage, strength, and grace. He lived as he led: honorably, humbly, and with deep love for his family, finding purpose, beauty, and meaning in what was placed before him.

Mike was born on October 5, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Michael Luckow, Sr., and Cassandra “Cassie” Michalski, who began their lives together in Winnipeg, Canada. The oldest of four boys, Mike grew up surrounded by strong family bonds and Polish tradition.

From an early age, Mike showed a natural artistic talent, following in the footsteps of his mother. His abilities were recognized during his school years, leading him to attend Cass Technical High School, where he cultivated his creativity. Some days, on his way from school to work, Mike would stop at the waterfront, sketchbook in hand, quietly drawing as he watched life unfold along the Detroit River before arriving at his aunt and uncle’s hat company. There, hats were crafted for the Detroit Police Department, other municipal servants, and the general public.

Mike continued his education at Wayne University (now Wayne State University) before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army. He trained stateside as a tank gunman and was later stationed overseas in Europe during peacetime. He deeply valued the opportunity to explore another part of the world and embraced the experiences it offered. While stationed abroad, Mike frequently visited the base library and art studio, working in acrylic, wood, and clay—welcoming different mediums and using whatever materials were available, once again finding purpose, beauty, and meaning in what was placed before him.

After completing his service, Mike returned home to Detroit, traveling through Detroit Central Station, and began his professional career at Professional Art Studios. There, he worked alongside some of the most talented artists in the city, contributing to major advertising campaigns, particularly within Detroit’s thriving automotive industry.

In 1962, Mike married Denise Rzucidlo. Together they raised their daughters, Lisa and Julie, in Detroit before moving to Livonia in 1971. Their son, Mark, was born in 1977. Family was always at the center of Mike’s world, shaped by the love and support of both the Luckow and Rzucidlo families. Though Mike and Denise divorced in 2000, their relationship grew into a lasting friendship built on mutual respect, shared love for their children, and continued memory-making moments with their family.

Christmas was Mike’s favorite time of year. It was during this season that his Polish roots were most deeply felt, especially at Christmas Eve gatherings with family to share pierogi and fish—a reflection of what Mike held dear: faith, family, culture, and tradition.

In 2003, while nearing retirement, Mike was given the opportunity to take on a new role. He moved to Traverse City to start a new adventure taking care of a vineyard on the old Mission Peninsula. Reminiscent of his summers as a young boy camping with his family on Walled Lake, he again embraced the great outdoors—learning everything he could about growing wine grapes, cherishing harvest time, and observing Mother Nature from his tractor among the vines, even just months before his passing. A special “MJL” wine label was dedicated to him after his last harvest on his 89th birthday weekend. Just like its namesake, the label’s distinct red blend from the Old Mission Peninsula is warm, yet earthy, structured but with a softer side, just like Michael Joseph Luckow, Jr., the OG.

Those who knew Mike will remember him for the deep love he gave so freely and for the gentle soul whose presence brought calm and comfort.

Michael Joseph Luckow, Jr. is survived by his beloved daughters Lisa Luckow-Healy (Brett) and Julie McDonell; his cherished grandchildren Austin Healy, Haley (Josh) Spisak, Skylar Healy, Lauren (Patrick) Donovan, Mackenzie McDonell, and Gabrielle Healy; and his treasured great-grandchildren Ada Spisak and Sutton Donovan. He is also survived by many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael J. Luckow, Sr. and Cassandra “Cassie” Luckow; his brothers Carl, Robert, and Dennis Luckow; his son Mark Luckow; and his son-in-law Brian McDonell.

A visitation will take place on Sunday January 18, 2026 at R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral home, 15451 Farmington Road, Livonia Michigan 48154 from 2:00 PM- 7:00 PM. A memory service will take place at 5:30 PM on Sunday January 18, 2026. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday January 19, 2026 at St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center 23333 Schoolcraft Rd Detroit Michigan 48223 at 11:30 AM. Instate at the church will be from 10:30 AM until the time of the mass. Burial will take place at Parkview Memorial Cemetery the following day.

Please share a memory of Michael by singing his Guestbook.