"Michael I just got a messenger note from your sister, it seem was there since July 2020, but for some reason popped up today...my heart is broken, I cannot believe I lost the best Universal Orlando co-worker (call center) I had and the one that always made me feel pretty and young because you were always joking with me and I had to say \"stay in your lane buddy\"; but deep down would laugh, you were to much. I feel so grateful the years we kept in touch even after you move and I had been missing you lately, your hello asking what am I doing and it would never change...I\'d say working, LOL You were an amazing friend, sorry never got to visit your home state, of course with my hubby by my side. I miss you buddy and will always remember you, your passing date to make it even more attached to our friendship is my wedding anniversary...now will have two celebration, will always remember you! RIP Buddy! Love your dear friend Ana 06/8/2021"
In loving memory of
Michael A. Byrd, Jr
December 28, 1981 - July 22, 2020
Michael A. Byrd, Jr. (Mike) 38, died suddenly on July 22, 2020, from a pulmonary embolism
while at his home in Marion, Iowa.
Mike was born on December 28, 1981, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Although he lived all
over the East coast for most of his young life, he spent most of his adult life living in the Midwest
to be near family. Mike will forever be remembered by his loved ones for his endless generosity,
wild sense of humor, and irresistible charm. He was well-liked by all who knew him and was the
first person to crack a joke making everyone in his presence feel at ease. He never failed to
make his family and friends laugh, even in the most difficult situations. As a people person, it
was no surprise that Mike was an excellent salesman, often receiving praise and recognition for
his abilities to outsell his competitors.
He enjoyed cars, specifically car audio, modifying as well as upgrading audio systems, and was
a master at all things pertaining to electronics. Mike enjoyed spending time with his family,
especially his niece and nephews, whom he loved as if they were his own. He was the life of the
party while spending time with his many friends attending renaissance festivals, concerts, and
sporting events. He enjoyed gaming, getting a good deal, and spoiling his family, especially his
nieces and nephews with lavish gifts.
He is survived by his mother Christine (Wilkinson) Byrd of Marion, Iowa, and his father Michael
A. Byrd, Sr. (Shelly) of Terre Haute, Indiana. His grandfather Carl J. Byrd III and Grandmother
Florence Wilkinson. Two sisters, Jessica (Malden) Baasch, and Melissa (Michael) Dixon. His
beloved nephews and niece, Nikolas Baasch, Bradley Baasch, and Melody Dixon. Numerous
uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family, and many friends.
He is proceeded in death by his grandmother Ellen Smith and his grandfather John Wilkinson
Sr.
Due to COVID-19 Restrictions, there will be no visitation allowed. However, there will be a
blessing and prayer service held at St Joe's Catholic Church in Marion, Iowa at 8:15 AM on
Friday, July 31, 2020. All who want to attend are welcome.
Tributes
"Every second of every day I miss you. I love you with all my heart and soul. I don't know how to go on without you. I wish I could swap places with you. You were way too young. Lord please care for my son until I can be with him. You always made me feel so loved. If I ever needed anything you were there. Even if it was just too be next to you and talk to you."
"I have a lot of happy memories remembering my nephew, Mike . He truly did have a big heart . I really enjoyed the time we spent together, when he was a little boy , and he spent a lot of time with me and my husband in Virginia, when he was a teenager- always willing to help in every way possible. He loved his family very much! And I?ve heard stories about him being a good uncle to his niece and nephews. That was the kind of person he was. I love you , Mike And I will miss you always ?? Now rest peacefully in God?s arms . "
"A good dude that will truly be missed"