Michael "Mikey" Joseph Darnell, 44, of Michigan City, passed peacefully in his sleep to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 21, 2016.
He was born in Indianapolis, IN, on June 28, 1971 to Donald J. Mulloy and Susan E. Darnell.
Michael is survived by his loving mother, Susan Darnell of Portage, IN; his sister, Jennifer Darnell-Lucas of Portage, IN; niece and nephew, Kimberlee and Mason Darnell; aunt Patricia (Rick) Turley of Gary, TX; uncle Walter (Brenda) Darnell of Indianapolis, IN; aunt Frances "Franny"(Tom) Flynn of Indianapolis, IN; and cousins, with extended family in Georgia and Japan.
Michael also leaves behind many special friends and caregivers from Parents and Friends and Michiana Resources, Glenn Waddell, Elsa Littman, and Ellen "Helen" Steele.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald J. Mulloy; maternal grandparents, Charles A. and Penny Nobuko Darnell (who was his heart); and uncle, Timmy Darnell (who also had Lowe Syndrome).
Michael graduated in 1990 from SELF in Valparaiso, IN. He attended day services at Michiana Resources and had a phenomenal memory with great attention to detail. He enjoyed being around people, and people enjoyed being around him. To know Michael, was to love him . He loved his family, music (oldies), home visits, holidays especially Christmas, being outdoors, and learning. "It's a Gorgeous day" was his famous saying. He loved to laugh and did it often. He knew and loved God.
Michael by choice left a very loving gift of hope to the Lowe Syndrome Association. He courageously donated rare blood and brain tissue specimens to the University of Maryland School of Medicine Brain and Tissue Bank for research on Lowe Syndrome (Michael's disorder). This opportunity can someday lead to a cure for Lowe Syndrome.
A visitation will be held at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center in LaPorte, IN on Friday, May 27, 2016 from 4-6 PM.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, September 24, 2016 at 11 AM at Living Hope Community Church, 1115 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to the family. The family extends their deepest appreciation to everyone who contributed to Michael's life and are supporting us at this heartbreaking time.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.