July 1, 1925 – November 6, 2025
Wife of Pastor Vernon L. Michael, Helen Aura Brandenburg-Michael, age 100, of Custer, Michigan, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on November 6, 2025. She passed peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, after a day filled with warm visits, gentle laughter, and the company of dear friends and loved ones.
Helen was born on July 1, 1925, to Dewey and Fern Brandenburg of Custer, Michigan. She grew up in a close-knit family rooted in love, faith, and hard work—values that guided her entire life. While attending Custer High School, Helen met her future husband and lifelong companion, Vernon Lyle Michael. The two were married on July 11, 1942, beginning an extraordinary partnership that would span decades. Vernon affectionately called her “Squirt,” a nickname that perfectly captured her bright smile, warm humor, and lively spirit.
Helen was proud to serve as a military wife during World War II. While Vernon was stationed overseas, she worked diligently at a local factory, supporting the war effort and caring for their young family. Her resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering devotion carried her through those early years of uncertainty and challenge.
After Vernon’s return home, Helen embraced her next great calling—as a pastor’s wife. Together, she and Vernon served the United Methodist Church faithfully for 33 years. Helen’s warm heart, deep compassion, and steadfast faith made her a true partner in ministry. She welcomed countless parishioners into her home and heart, offering comfort, encouragement, and kindness wherever they were called to serve. Their life together took them to many different communities, and Helen embraced each move with grace, optimism, and love—building new friendships and church families along the way.
Beyond her faith and family, Helen found immense joy in sewing, a lifelong passion that became both a creative outlet and an act of service. She lovingly crafted clothing for family and friends, including several wedding gowns—among them, her own daughter’s. Her talent and attention to detail led her to a position in the alterations department at Roger’s Department Store, where she worked for many years. Those who knew Helen knew her needle and thread were expressions of her heart—patient, precise, and filled with love.
After retiring, Helen and Vernon enjoyed many happy years together, surrounded by family and friends. Their home was always a place of warmth, laughter, and grace.
Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vernon Lyle Michael; her children Gary, Bruce, and Beth; her parents Dewey and Fern Brandenburg; and her sister Lila.
She is survived by her loving daughter-in-law Cheri Michael, her daughter Laurie J. Houts (Lon), her son Ross (Sheila), and her daughter Julaine. She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, as well as her sisters Doris Reid and Donna Jean (Merv) McVicker. Her love and faith live on through each of them and in the many lives she touched.
A graveside service celebrating Helen’s remarkable century of life will be held at Crystal Valley Cemetery on July 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a luncheon in Hart (location to be announced).
Helen’s legacy is one of faith, devotion, and love—a life well lived and a heart well shared. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Last Updated on December 2, 2025