Obituaries

Mike Heise, age 61, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away embraced in love, after a hard fought and courageous two-year battle with cancer on March 16, 2026. Mike was born on September 12, 1964, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario to Horst and Alice (Ney) Heise.

Mike was raised in "Soo Canada" until he ventured to the United States to pursue other interests and opportunities. He made his way through many different areas in the United States before settling in "Soo” Michigan, in order to be close to his family, who remain in Canada. He was employed as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service in St. Ignace, Michigan, a position he took great pride in and often spoke about returning to once he was well enough.

In his free time, Mike enjoyed bike riding and taking in the local sites. Mike particularly enjoyed DIY projects around his home as well as relaxing in his yard listening to music. He was an avid sports fan, primarily hockey, and you would often find him cheering on the Sabres, or his favorite football team, the New England Patriots.

Mike adored his family and was often present at family events, doing everything he could to be close to them.

Mike is survived by his loving partner, Elaine McKnight; her son, James McKnight; his ever caring and supportive sisters, Sheila (Steve) Heise and Fran (Dan) Heise; three nieces and a nephew, all of whom he adored, Kristen (Pat), Alicia (Steve), Jamie (Erin) and Britney (Tyson), all affectionately referring to him as "Fun Guy" and lovingly but simply "Uncle". He also leaves many great nieces and nephews, and his "ride or die" best buddy since childhood, Tim (Ann Marie) Morden. He is also mourned by his fur babies, Dezi-Lu, Izzy-Bell and Agador Spartacus.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Horst and Alice; as well as his much-loved fur baby “Little Orphan” Annie.

A Celebration of Mikes Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Mike’s family requests donations be made to Ball Hospice House, 308 W. 12th Avenue, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan 49783: hospiceoftheeup.com or ARCH Hospice in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario: ARCH Hospice/Donate https://share.google/gUdkvVGhbHc9cTRcP

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