Michael Barnett Hart

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Michael Barnett Hart at the age of 57, on June 17th 2026. He is survived by his 2 children, Machaela and Elliot Hart, their mother Brenda Hart, his parents, Bill and Pat Hart, his brother, Brad (Bonnie) Hart, his niece Lindsey (Ryan) Hart, nephews Alex and Cameron Hart, close cousins and dear friends.

Born March 18th, 1969, Michael, better known as Mike, grew up in a loving home filled with love and laughter in Shelby Township, Michigan. Over his younger years, he lauded many accomplishments that culminated in a Masters degree from Wayne State University. With his studies centered around geography, he grew his self-proclaimed title of a ‘Geography nerd who finds out where stuff should go’ into a career as a Manager of Market Analysis & GIS Strategy.

This career path led to Mike having homes across a wide swath of the United States, from his home state of Michigan, to Texas, Minnesota, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and North Carolina. It was during this time that Mike had the privilege of starting a family. This was his greatest joy, imbuing his best qualities to his 2 children that he was immensely proud of and loved so deeply.

Known for his gregarious nature and passionate spirit, Mike was deeply loved by his family and large circle of friends. Anyone who knew Mike had the privilege of being availed by his many passions. From arts and culture, to good food, progressive rock, and all things Detroit sports, you could be sure that the joy he found would be shared with excitement with those closest to him. His most principal interest was music, with Rush topping the list of his many favorite bands.

Anyone who knew Mike can likely remember a song shared, a movie recommended, or a laugh over a joke. Conversations that felt like minutes could last hours, as he could strike up a chat with a stranger and become the best of friends by the end of it. We will remember the way Mike could light up a room, the fond memories he left on the lives that he touched during his time here. The impressions made as a son, father, uncle, and friend that will live on with all of us. As Mike would often say in the words of the great Obi-Wan Kenobi, “May the force be with you,” as we send the same sentiment back to him, now amongst the stars.

Please join us for a celebration of life on Friday, July 10th from 12pm-5pm, with a memorial service to commence at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to support the costs of the service. The event will take place at the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home (11280 32 Mile Road, Romeo MI 48065).