A champion for the lost, Kevin Clarence Michael, 59, of Springfield, Missouri, received his ultimate reward as he was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Born on March 31, 1966, to Roland Michael and Rosalie McAdams, Kevin grew up in Willard and Springfield alongside his four brothers; Dan, Ron, Pat, and Scott. He graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1984.

Kevin was a dedicated and skilled tradesman, known for his strong work ethic and expertise. Over the years, he became highly sought after in his field, working for Trux Trailer/Tractor Repair, Jenkins Diesel, and TAG Truck Center.

Kevin met the love of his life, Angela, as a teenager while the two worked at Hardee’s. They married in 1986 and built a marriage grounded in unwavering, Christ-centered faith. More than husband and wife, they were true partners, woven together through life’s trials and triumphs. Together, they mentored many couples and were often called upon to guide others through difficult seasons, drawing from their deep love, hard-earned wisdom, and steadfast faith.

Kevin’s proudest achievement was his son, Luke. The two shared countless hunting, fishing, and camping adventures, from the Rocky Mountains with the Boy Scouts, to quiet mornings fishing from kayaks to cherished hunts in the Ozark Mountains. Kevin treasured every moment spent passing on his love for the outdoors. He often said he gained a daughter the day Luke married Rachel, and he took great comfort in knowing his son had a partner well-suited for life’s challenges.

To encounter Kevin was to encounter Christ. His faith was not something he kept to himself, it overflowed. Filled with God’s spirit, Kevin encouraged the weary, prayed with the hurting, and boldly witnessed about God’s faithfulness. His legacy lives on in the countless family members, friends, and even strangers whose lives were changed by his compassion and example.

Kevin lived his passions with the same wholehearted devotion he brought to his faith and family. A loyal St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs fan, he cheered with enthusiasm. A self-taught musician, he played the harmonica, banjo, and dulcimer. A gifted home chef, he mastered the art of smoking meat on his many smokers, crafted a legendary homemade chocolate ice cream, and perfected a dinner roll that became the highlight of Thanksgiving gatherings.

Though this loss is immeasurable, we find comfort in the hope and assurance that we will see Kevin again.

Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Roland Michael, and stepmother, Jan; his mother, Rosalie McAdams, and stepfather, Emery; and his brother, Pat. He is survived by his wife, Angela; his son, Luke, and daughter-in-law, Rachel; his brothers Dan, Ron and wife Terri, and Scott; his stepsister, Sherry Gonzalez; a host of in-laws or outlaws as Kevin referred to them; and a host of nieces and nephews.