Michael Jay Carmichael

Michael J. Carmichael, 71 years old, passed away at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at his home. Michael was born on May 12, 1954 in South Bend to the late Merle David and Marjorie Carmichael. He was a lifelong resident of South Bend. 

Michael is survived by his two sons, Jay Carmichael of South Bend and Brian (Jacqueline) Carmichael of Noblesville and three grandchildren, Stephen, Frederick, and Ruby. He is also survived by his two sisters and one brother, Rita (Tom) Egendoerfer of Granger, Nancy Rosanski of South Bend and Merle (Heather) Carmichael of South Bend, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Michael was a truck driver for many years and traveled all across the country. He would happily share stories of his time on the road, the interesting people he’d met, and the beautiful places he’d visited. He was skilled in all things mechanical and often worked on cars and trucks. He pursued this passion throughout his life. He would go on to start a small business selling trucks. He also operated heavy equipment for a number of years.

He was a good man. He was always happy to help those who needed it. Kind and outgoing, he loved to talk to people and get to know them. He was generous with his time and never too busy to ask how you were doing. People were the highlight of his day, and Mike was often the highlight of theirs. An easygoing guy with a joke at the ready, he was sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face and brighten their day. He will be dearly missed, but the joy he spread continues to live on. 

A time of gathering celebrating the life of Michael Carmichael will be held on Sunday, March 1st, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Michael may be donated to the National Park Foundation: https://give.nationalparks.org

Online condolences may be offered to Michael’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.