In sad news, Michael Doran, a 71-year-old retired educator and athletics coach from Ithaca, tragically passed away after being involved in a traffic crash in Arcada Township. This incident has left a community grieving the loss of a beloved individual who made significant contributions to education and sports.
As we delve deeper into this article, we will uncover more details surrounding this unfortunate event.
Who was Michael Doran?
Mike, a native of Saginaw, Michigan, was born on June 3, 1952, to his late parents, Harvey and Ida Doran. He attended Saginaw Arthur Hill and graduated in 1970. Later, in 1974, he earned a teaching degree from Central Michigan University. He began his teaching journey at Ithaca in the same year, where he eventually met and married his beloved Kathy. Together, they cherished 43 years of marriage and were blessed with two daughters, Bethany and Allison, who meant the world to him.
At Ithaca, Mike discovered his true passion as a coach. Known as ‘Coach’ or ‘Coach D,’ he dedicated 31 years of his life coaching football, wrestling, and softball for the Yellowjackets. Mike firmly believed that sports taught essential values like resilience, teamwork, hard work, integrity, and commitment. He deeply cared for his students and athletes, always motivating them to improve and sharing his wisdom on various aspects of life. Building strong relationships was a crucial part of being an educator and coach, and Mike excelled at both.
Even after retiring, he continued to teach and coach at Alma College, nurturing a love for football and softball in numerous athletes. From 2009 onwards, he devoted his skills to Lansing Catholic Central, culminating in a state championship in football in 2019, alongside his close friend and longtime coaching partner, Jim Ahern. Throughout his life, Mike’s dedication to education and sports left a lasting impact on all those he encountered.
Michael Doran Accident: How it Happened?
According to Gratiot County Sheriff Mike Morris, there was a tragic incident involving Michael Doran, 71, from Ithaca. Doran was driving southbound on Luce Road near Sanctuary Dr. when he was struck by a semi truck. Initial investigations suggest that his pickup truck crossed the center line, possibly due to a medical event he may have experienced before the crash. Sadly, Doran lost his life in the collision, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the semi truck, a 57-year-old man from Mt. Pleasant, fortunately escaped without injuries. The Gratiot County Sheriff’s Office received the call about the accident at 2:20 p.m. and was joined by the Alma District Fire Department, the Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division, and the Michigan State Police Accident Investigation Team at the scene to assist. It’s important to note that both Doran and the semi driver were wearing their seatbelts, and alcohol is not believed to have played a role in the tragedy.
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Obituary And Funeral Arrangements
The funeral services for the late Mike, who passed away tragically, will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes in Ithaca, MI, on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, starting at 2:00 P.M. Pastor Phil Maxwell will be officiating the service. Following the funeral, Mike will be laid to rest at New Haven Township Cemetery in New Haven Twp, MI. To pay their respects and offer support, visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday, July 24, 2023, and Tuesday, July 25, 2023, from 2:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Additionally, there will be visitation on Wednesday from 12:00 P.M. until the start of the service.
Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests donations for a future scholarship fund in honor of Mike. Those wishing to extend their condolences can do so online at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The arrangements are being handled by Smith Family Funeral Homes in Ithaca, Michigan, as they support the family during this difficult time.
