Obituary of Michael Owen Whitfield

Michael Whitfield, 67, of Niles, passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2020, at his home. He was born on May 22, 1952, in Niles, to the late Julius and Edna (Matthews) Whitfield. Michael graduated in 1970, from Brandywine High School. He married the former Lynne Rotzien on August 28, 1993, in Niles. After graduation, he went on to enlist in the United States Army. Michael owned and operated Milano’s Pizza in Buchanan for over 25 years. He enjoyed spending his time there. He was very active with the Niles Jaycees; he helped facilitate getting the haunted house started. Michael was very proud to serve his community as a Niles Reserve Officer. Michael is survived by his wife, Lynne Whitfield of Niles; children, Brian (Danielle) Ketchum of Niles; Courtney (Brent) Evans of Berrien Springs; and Tori (Ty) Davies of Niles; five grandchildren, Ashley, Addison, Bryce, Cody, and Reese; brother Tim (Sandy) Whitfield of Niles and a sister, Sally (Ken) Zmudzinski of Cassopolis. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Rodger and Phillip Whitfield. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM, on Monday, January 6, 2020, at Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main St. in Niles. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mission Hills Memorial Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Michael’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association