Age 54, of Flint, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at home with family by his side. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Mike’s tribute wall at detroitcremationsociety.com.

Jody “Mike” Michael (Graham) VanGilder was born on February 22, 1972, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Mr. James Graham and Ms. Dawn VanGilder. Mike graduated from EA Johnson Memorial High School in Mount Morris, Michigan. Upon completion of high school, he would attend PSI Institute of Flint, where he would graduate with high honors. Mike worked as a delivery truck driver for Little Debbie’s, and he would bring joy to children in the neighborhood by bringing home extra snacks for them to enjoy.

One of his greatest joys in life was music. Mike enjoyed creating melodies through the lyrics he would write, and the time he spent playing his guitar. Mike also would spend his free time by reading, watching movies, playing video games (especially Final Fantasy), and spending time with his family creating new memories they would all cherish forever.

Left to cherish his memory is his lifetime partner: Brandy Bartig; his son: Jack Bartig; his daughter: Sydney Bartig; his mother: Gail Bartig; mother-in-law: Dawn VanGilder; his sister: Regan Graham; his nieces: Breanna Klepoch, Hillary Klepoch; his great-nieces and great-nephews: Zophia, Braylon, and Eloise; his best friend: David Cross; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his father: James Herman Graham; his grandparents: LaVerene and Gretchen VanGilder; his uncle: David Graham; and his niece: Taylor Klepoch.