Michael J. Walsh, 71, of Epoufette, was a U.S. Army veteran, a truck driver, and a volunteer fireman. Mr. Walsh died Monday, September 22, 2008, at Schoolcraft Medical Care Facility in Manistique.

He was born March 23, 1937 in Detroit, the son of Robert and Hildegard (Grosh) Walsh. He was graduated from the University of Detroit High School and continued his education at Michigan State University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in transportation.

Mr. Walsh served in the U.S. Army from 1956 until 1959, serving in Germany.

He was an over-the-road truck driver as an owner/operator of a moving van for the Bekins Van Line. He was a volunteer fireman and first responder with Hendricks Township Volunteer Fire Department for several years, and was a stock car racing enthusiast.

Mr. Walsh is survived by three brothers and their families, Kevin and Valerie Walsh of Naples, Florida, David and Sarah Walsh of Naubinway, and John and Maria Disser of Indianapolis, Indiana; two sisters and their families, Teresa and Tony Bezouska of LaGrange, Illinois, and Mary and Ted Robinson of Atherton, California, and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at the Epoufette Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to the Hendricks Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Messier-Broullire Funeral Home in Manistique is assisting the family with arrangements.