Obituaries

Mikala “Mikki” Jo (Eby) Messer, age 65, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 20, 1961, in Sault Ste. Marie to Theodore and Patricia (Menard) Eby.

Mikki was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend who spent her life taking care of the people she loved. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to her husband, Gary Messer, and their children, Jack Messer and Olivia Rowe, who were the center of her world.

Mikki showed her love through caring for others. She was always cooking, cleaning, doing favors, or finding a way to make someone's life a little easier. She rarely sat still and was happiest when she was doing something for someone else. She was always there for her friends and family and could be counted on whenever someone needed her.

Mikki spent more than thirty years working at Sault Tribe Head Start, where she prepared meals for the tribal youth and became a familiar and caring presence in the lives of generations of children. Her work was a reflection of the nurturing person she was; she took pride in caring for others and found purpose in helping create a warm, welcoming environment for the children she served. Her dedication to the program and the families in her community was a meaningful part of her life and legacy.

Outside of work, Mikki found joy in the simple things, days at the beach, cake decorating, celebrating birthdays, and the family traditions she held so dear. She loved bringing everyone together for holiday meals and especially loved Christmas. She took great joy in finding the most thoughtful and amazing gifts for the people she loved and in spoiling her children, even well into adulthood. Every Christmas brought her famous Christmas cookies; a tradition filled with love that her family will cherish and continue for years to come.

Mikki is survived by her husband, Gary Messer; son, Jack (Kaela) Messer; daughter, Olivia (Donovan) Rowe; mother, Patricia Eby; and her siblings, Nanette (Lisa) Clark, Ted (Connie) Eby, Lori Randazzo, Douglas (Laurie) Eby, and Kristi (Shane) Bailey.

Mikki was preceded in death by her father, Theodore Eby.

Rather than a traditional funeral service, Mikki's family will be hosting a Celebration of Life in her honor on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at 313 Club, 313 Ashmun St. Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories, celebrate Mikki's life, and honor the love and joy she brought to so many people.

Mikki spent her life taking care of everyone else. Her greatest legacy will be the love she gave so freely, the people she helped, and the countless lives she touched. She was always there. She always cared. And she will be loved and missed forever.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Hospice of the EUP, where Mikki spent her final two weeks. Their compassion, care, and support brought comfort not only to Mikki, but to her entire family during an incredibly difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mikki’s memory to Hospice of the EUP, 308 W. 12th Ave. Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.