Michael D. Sapp Sr.

August 23, 1949 - May 7, 2025 With deep sorrow and profound gratitude, we announce the passing of Michael D. Sapp Sr., who departed this life peacefully at home, surrounded by daughter Michaelle, granddaughter Taylor, long time friend Kathleen Ribbens and Emmanuel hospice social worker Karl Butler on May 7, 2025 at the age of 75. He left behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the service of others. Born in Grand Rapids, MI to Marilyn and Dennis Sapp, Michael was a beacon of selflessness from an early age. In 1979 he founded PAWS with a Cause (formerly known as Ears for the Deaf) and later expanded with PAWS prison partners, which has become a nationally recognized non-profit. As a tireless advocate, he spent decades devoted to PAWS and their vision of empowering individuals with disabilities through training and providing service dogs that offered not just support, but independence, companionship and hope. He lived each day with quiet grace and purpose that inspired everyone fortunate enough to know him. His career was not one of accolades or riches, but of impact measured in the lives touched, the hearts healed, and the communities strengthened. Beyond his lifelong work, Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Perhaps the greatest example of his boundless devotion came in the final years of his beloved wife’s life. When Antoinette (Candye) Sapp was diagnosed with cancer in 1991, Michael became her constant and unwavering caregiver. His love never faltered and his strength was a source of comfort to her and to all who witnessed their bond. He is survived by his children Michael [Tracy] Sapp, Michaelle [Michael] Kiliszewski, and Lisa [Jay] Pruett, grand children Jordan [Anthony] Naperola, Taylor [Ron] Fowkes, Nichole [Dom] Groenveld and Ashlee [Tom] Siedlecki, and great grandchildren Theo, Grayson, Layla, Ella, Spencer, Trenton and Patience and his brothers Pat and Scott Sapp and many friends. He is preceded in death by his cherished wife [Antoinette Sapp], brother Daniel, parents Marilyn and Dennis, grandson Tyler and great grandson Hunter. A service will be held on Tuesday May 13, 2025 at 11am at Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuary [3525 Remembrance Rd NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534]. His family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service at the funeral home . A luncheon will follow the service from 2-4pm at Knights of St. Casimir [6th street hall - 649 6th St NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504]. In honor of his legacy, the family asks that donations be made to PAWS with a Cause or Emmanuel Hospice, who provided exceptional care in Michael’s final weeks on earth. Michael lived a life deep rooted in altruism and may we all be better for having known him and strive to carry his spirit forward.

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Michael D. Sapp Sr.

August 23, 1949 - May 7, 2025