Michele Mili
On August 18, 2024, at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, the world unexpectedly lost a true and beautiful spirit, Michele Mili, a woman who gave her life for friends, and whose work and artistic talents will live on forever.
Michele Mili was born in Detroit, Michigan. A spirited and talented individual, Michele attended L’Anse C.J. Sullivan Elementary School and graduated from Hancock High School in 1991. She pursued her passion for cosmetology and earned her certificate from Northern Michigan University in 1992. That same year, Michele married her high school sweetheart, Dan Kowalski, in a beautiful ceremony at Sacred Heart Church in L’Anse, officiated by Father Thorn. The couple made their home in Houghton, Michigan, where they spent over 20 years together and had 2 amazing sons (Joseph and Jacob). Even after their parting, he always had a special place in her heart. She loved all the numerous nieces and nephews gained along the way.
Michele’s professional journey was marked by her commitment to her craft. She worked at Regis, Salon by Michelle, and J.C. Penny before opening Radiance Salon, where she left an indelible mark on her clients and community. Her charisma, talent, love, and dedication earned her a loyal following.
In the latter part of her life, Michele shared her time with her friend and intermittent partner, Charles Bailey. She loved his family like her own and took joy in his children and grandchildren.
Michele is survived by her sons Joseph and Jacob Kowalski, sister Patricia Mili, a brother Michael, Uncle Thomas Mili, Dan Kowalski, and nieces/nephews too numerous to count.
She is preceded in death by her parents David and JoAnn Mili, as well as grandparents William and Patricia Mili.
Michele’s heart was full with the smiles she brought to her friends. She lives on in the countless people she touched throughout her life, and in her artistic work.
There will be a memorial service for Michele on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Houghton Baptist Church on Sharon Avenue in Houghton. There will then be a Celebration of Life at The South Range VFW Post (Range Lounge) in South Range from 4 until 8 P.M. on Friday, September 20.
A Go-Fund-Me account has been set up for Michele’s boys, Joseph and Jacob Kowalski at Donate to Help Michele’s Sons After Tragic Loss, or an account has been set up at Superior National Bank in Hancock under “Michele Mili Memorial Fund”. The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements. Please go to www.oneilldennisfh.com to leave online condolences.