Michael Leon Granger, 75, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday night, July 7, 2022. Born on June 6, 1947 to Leon and Lucile Granger of Apopka, Michael lived an abundant life dedicated to his family and many friends. His joyful spirit and generous heart for helping others will live on among all who knew him.
Leadership, education and hard work were pillars of Mike’s life and legacy. His father died when he was a boy and life became a struggle. He worked hard through school with the support of his mom, siblings, and the Apopka community. In 1966, he graduated from Apopka High School where he was the starting quarterback and linebacker for the varsity football team and Student Council President. Michael received a scholarship to attend Manatee Jr. College, and then studied at Florida State University, where he graduated in 1970 with a degree in Business Administration.
While at FSU, Michael joined ROTC and attended the United States Army Adjutant General School in 1973. After graduating AAG in the rank of Captain, he joined the Army reserves and was honorably discharged in 1980.
Michael also earned his law degree from FSU College of Law in 1973 and was in private practice in Tallahassee for many years, specializing in insurance litigation and regulation. He has been a proud member of the Florida Bar for nearly 50 years and a Seminole Booster and season ticket holder for 40 years.
When not practicing law, Michael had a variety of interests. He began dancing as a child with his family and, frankly, he never stopped. He liked any dance style – the fox trot, Argentine tango and the biker’s shuffle; and he loved uplifting music. His talents didn’t end on the dance floor, either. He began playing golf in high school and the game engendered many friendships throughout his life. He loved the outdoors, spending time at Lake Mystic in Florida, and working on many ambitious outdoor projects.
Michael was an enthusiastic follower of Christ and shared the message of Jesus with many. He had a special connection with the younger generation, mentoring countless young people in Apopka and through the college ministry at First Baptist Church, Tallahassee, Florida
Above all, Mike loved helping others. He loved people. He gave endlessly of himself and was always excited to see you with a smile, hug and sometimes a new shirt or pair of shoes. He had a zest for life that was contagious, always sharing stories about his recent adventures or his pride and joy – his kids and grandkids. Michael loved, is loved, and will be missed by many.
Michael is survived by his beloved children Julie (Kyle) Kritz of Atlanta, and Greg (Lindsay) Granger of Tallahassee; and five grandchildren who called him “Papa”: Claire Kritz, Mason Granger Kritz, Cora Granger, and twins, Zoe and Bria Granger. Michael is also survived by three siblings, Lajuaia, Thomas and Carol; and many friends including his former wife, the mother of his children, Jane Meadows of Tallahassee, and his long-time girlfriend, Sheryl Rithmire of Atlanta.
A funeral service will be held at 2 pm at the First Baptist Church of Apopka on Saturday, July 16, 2022 followed by a reception and a family burial service at Edgewood-Greenwood cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to your favorite charity in his memory.
This heritage started 67 years ago with Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, who founded the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1934. In 1938 Francis E. Loomis, son of Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, received his license to practice Mortuary Science and in 1941 established Loomis Funeral Home of Winter Garden, FL. 
420 W Main St
Apopka, FL 32712-3452
Stephen G. Murray says
Mike’s love of golf and people brought him to the East Cobb Classic Golf Club in Georgia. He was happy with us as we were with him; he traveled further than most to be with us. He amazed us with his exuberance, generosity and attentive ear; his golf skills and bright presence at every event will be missed. Mike’s exuberance for life and time shared with people close to him will always be remembered by how he made you and what you had to say feel so important. Rest In peace, Mike, but aim left on your next fairway and wait for us on the green.
Love, ECCGC
Saida Vazquez says
Sending prayers to the family and friends may he Rest In Peace. His memories will keep him alive in your hearts.
Carolyn Barbay says
This is a beautiful obituary. It describes the Mike that I know to a T. Mike and Sheryl were mine and Bobby’s dancing friends. We spent so many happy times together going to dances. It was a wonderful time in my life and Bobby and I will miss him tremendously.
Carolyn Barbay says
This is a beautiful obituary. It fits the Mike that I knew to a tee. Mike and Sheryl were mine and Bobby’s dancing friends and Mike was Bobby’s golfing buddy. We spent so many fun times dancing the night away. Mike was a dear friend and he will be missed by many.
Gerry preisser says
There is no one else like Mike Granget!
Since jr high school days Mike’s energy, determination and unfailing sense of humor have inspired me and lifted me up. He was a man of integrity, faith and love, extending charity to so many. I will miss my wonderful friend!
Gail Chisena Terry says
Mike was a wonderful classmate, always kind and caring even though I was not part of the popular crowd. I was a good student and so was Mike, unlike many jocks who just wanted to copy my homework! Mike and I both had a strong faith in God that guided our lives. We graduated on 6-6-66, Mike’s birthday! We had an unforgettable graduation day and Mike Granger is also unforgettable! I appreciated his friendship. This special man will be missed by many. Deepest condolences to his beloved family!
Larry and Lilli ODonnell says
The world will miss Mike, although we only knew him through dance. He was a wonderful person. He was always concerned about others.
May God grant him eternal rest, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Saeed naimouni says
I’m sorry to hear this tragic news,
June DuBard says
Thinking of the Granger family today. Will surely miss my dear friend, Michael Granger. The memories are everlasting. Mike will always hold a very special place in our hearts and never ever be forgotten! RIP. #4ever2theeGranger 💙🙏🏻 prayers, hugs, love
Merrill Traylor says
I was blessed to have known Mike as an attorney when he handled claims for Farm Bureau during my career as an claims representative. Additionally we later became neighbors on Lake Mystic. What a wonderful life he lived being led by the love of Christ. He left us much better than he found us and will be missed.
Rosemaree Saccomanno says
I never knew you, Michael, but from my dearest and most cherished friend and prayer partner for 37 years, Carol Granger, who loved you with an amazing, selfless love and for ALL the love, kindness, generosity, and support that you have always given over many years to my precious friend. Thank you for the legacy that you left which continues to goes on and on that was passed down by your God loving/God fearing parents to who have already met you at the heavenly gate with open, lovely arms echoing the same words that I can hear in my spirit from our Heavenly Father God “WELL DONE THOU GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT”.
YES CAROL YOU WILL SEE HIM AGAIN! MEANWHILE YOU WILL CARRY ON THE ANOINTED CALLING ON YOUR LIFE FULFILLING YOUR LEGACY. I absolutely count it all joy to know you, dear friend. I can’t wait to “SEE” Our Father’s Majestic power flow through your faithful body, mind and spirit! He knew what He was doing when He formed you in your mother’s womb! I’m so glad He did.
My love and limitless prayers.
My Love and Limitless Prayers,
Rosemaree
Janet says
Dear Julie and Family,
My deepest sympathy and condolences on the passing of your Dad!
I know that loss!
As I read your dad’s obituary, I couldn’t help but feel as though I “knew” him ~ and wish I had had the privilege of meeting that caring and giving person, full of life and laughter! May his wonderful and loving memories keep you. And, may the God of all comfort sustain you and give you peace!
Warm affection.
Michael & Johnette Wahlquist says
We are so saddened for you loss. Mike was a great neighbor and cared so much about our Lake Mystic community. We will have many fond memories to enjoy of him, especially the July 4th celebrations. Our prayers for comfort are with you.
Michael and Johnette Wahlquist
Bristol, FL
Julie, Kyle, Claire and Mason says
Thank you everyone for your kind and comforting words.
We will miss my dad’s heart and the joy he brought to our lives. We will honor him with our continued smiles, welcoming hugs and love for others. I thank God for all the time and fun we had with him.
Job well done dad … peace and joy to you in heaven!
Julie