Michael A. Uchniat

Michael A. Uchniat, fondly known as “Mike”, age 64, of Highland Township, formerly of Grand Blanc and Dearborn, unexpectedly passed away June 18, 2020. He was born in Detroit on November 7, 1955; son of John George and Genevieve Josephine (nee Zalewski) Uchniat.

Mike grew up as part of Dearborn’s “Yinger Street Family” where everyone looked out for each other. A rag-tag bunch of kids and their parents who were in and out of each other’s houses, and each other’s lives, for decades.

Michael graduated from Fordson High School in Dearborn; Class 1973. He continued his education at Detroit Barber College. Mike’s career path varied over the years, from owning his own Barber Shop “Hair and Now”, to Car Salesman, Delivery Driver and Retail Service Manager for the Firestone Corporation. One thing was always consistent. His way of living life was to serve others. His generosity knew no bounds.

Mike married Marcia on 7/11/87. They loved how that date had a special ring to it. And it was the opposite of his birthday, 11/7. Mike loved what mattered most. People. He never forgot a phone number, a face, a name, a birthday, an anniversary. And he always made sure to celebrate all of them. He also read the Obituaries every week, in case he came across a name that he knew, so he could reach out to the family and extend his condolences.

Mike was introduced to his wife Marcia by Carol, a close family friend, a few years after her first husband Richard, sadly passed away. The sparks were instant, and their bond only grew stronger over time. They were lovebirds, soulmates and best friends. Mike adored Marcia. He took care of her and would do anything for her. Michele and Kyle, Marcia’s young children, were his kids from day one. He was in no way a stepfather. He was a dad. He loved them beyond words. And they loved him just the same. He made their family whole again.

Affectionately known as Poppy, Mike adored his only grandson, Dominic Joseph. He was always excited to spend time with him and loved spoiling him with unconditional love. He would call and ask “Is little Dominic home? I have something for him.” It was usually something sports related to whichever sport and team was Dominic’s favorite at the time. Mike was also an Ohio State fan that would wear a Michigan sweatshirt, because that was his daughter’s alma mater. A true act of love.

Mike’s favorite things to do were playing Cards or Backgammon with his wife, family and friends. They kept a running winners log. Pinochle, or Shanghai Rummy were always the games of choice. Mike was also a very talented pool player who taught his daughter and son how to play. He made amazing homemade pizza and loved to garden with his wife Marcia. Over the years, their yards were always a beautiful and meticulous pride and joy.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Marcia L. Engelhart; his daughter Michele Silvestri and son Kyle Engelhart; his grandson Dominic Silvestri; his siblings, Diane “Bunny” (Bob) DeLong, Paula Skaggs, and Mardy Uchniat; his late sister-in-law, Alicia (Dennis) Conn; his niece, Janine (Andre) Luz; and his nephews, Adam DeLong and Jeff (Sarah) Conn. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother James Uchniat and his brother-in-law Chris Skaggs.

Mike was also surrounded by many friends who loved him just the same. When you became friends with Mike, you became family. And you had a friend for life. Mike was truly one of a kind. A selfless, genuine and loving soul who deeply cared about those around him. His generosity knew no bounds; he would offer the shirt off his back and ask what else he could do.

The family will be having a small private service to celebrate Mike’s life. During this difficult time, please make sure to reach out to the family by leaving your thoughts online, with a card or a phone call.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital .