Michael E. Birk

Michael E. “Mike” Birk, 57, of St. Joseph, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2019, at his home surrounded by his family. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11AM on Monday, July 29, 2019, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 220 Church St., St. Joseph with Msgr. Eugene Sears officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, July 28, 2019, from 2pm until 4pm at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. A Rosary will be recited at 4pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Lake Michigan Catholic Schools or Lake Michigan College Foundation for the Birk Family Scholarship. Those wishing to leave a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Mike was born on February 25, 1962, to Devon “Bud” & Mary (Lehner) Birk in South Bend. He graduated from Penn High School and continued his education at Indiana University South Bend. On April 25, 1987, Mike married the love of his life Cynthia Jaskiewicz at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Joseph. Mike worked as a Director of Computer Technology for Harley Davidson for five years and Whirlpool Corp. for over 27 years. Mike had a passion for anything outdoors, he loved to hunt, fish and play in the dirt. Most of all, Mike loved to spend his time with his family. He was a proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus and National Wild Turkey Federation. He spent many hours volunteering at school, church, Boy Scouts and hunting and fishing events. Mike was known as a warm generous person with a great sense of humor, he was always quick to help anyone and especially loved children. Mike is survived by his wife of 32 years, Cynthia Birk of St. Joseph; children, Amy Birk of Berrien Springs & Mitchell Birk of St. Joseph; father, Devon “Bud” Birk; sister, Sharon (Randy) Lawton; sisters-in-law Kelly Birk, Marcia (Vern) Shoff, Roberta (Bill) Wagner and Chris (Larry) Glendening; numerous nieces & nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his mother Mary Birk and brother Robert Birk.