Michael Douglas Garver, age 82, passed away peacefully in his home in Landis, North Carolina, on August 23, 2024 after a battle with bladder cancer. 

Michael was born on April 8, 1942 to Kenneth and Virginia Garver in Kannapolis, North Carolina. He graduated from A.L. Brown High School in 1959,  and then proudly served in the United State Navy until 1962.  He continued his service in the Navy Reserve for two additional years and served on the USS Enterprise. After serving his country, he went to Rowan Technical College from 1976 until 1979.  He co-owned and operated Puritan Laundry in Kannapolis, North Carolina. 

Michael was passionate about his faith and showed that commitment through a lifetime of church attendance and volunteering. He made sure everyone knew that Jesus loved them and shared his faith with others regularly.  He and his family attended Odell Baptist Church from 1973 to 1984. They then attended First Baptist Church of Enochville from 1984 until present day.  In this time, Michael served as a youth leader, Sunday school teacher, and a deacon.  He spent many years organizing golf tournaments to raise money to help underprivileged families for Christmas. 

Michael enjoyed a full and active life and loved many hobbies.  His family has fond memories of water skiing, snow skiing, boating, and golfing together.  If he wasn’t outdoors, you could find him inside watching golf, racing, or old movies. He also loved playing the guitar and singing. 

He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Faye; his sons, Jeff (Valerie) and Duane; grandchildren, Marie (AJ), Amber (Zach), and Sean; great-grandchildren, Mikalyn, Curtis, Hunter, Grayson, and Patrick; brothers, John (Sandy) and Tommy (Donna); as well as many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his stepson, Derek, and his sisters, Shirley and Ann. 

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.  He always had a hug and a smile to give to everyone in his path.  His joyful spirit and infectious smile will live on in our hearts forever. 

A Celebration of Life and Resurrection service will be held at First Baptist Church of Enochville, on Saturday, August 31 at 11:00a.m.  The Reverend Dr. Cathy Cook, will officiate.  The family will receive friends immediately following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, the family will be grateful for memorial donations to First Baptist Church of Enochville, 2308 Davis St, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Garver family.  Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com