Michael Philip Held (80) was called to his heavenly home on March 19, 2024, with his wife and children lovingly by his side. He was born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, on October 23, 1943. He was baptized on November 14, 1943 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Michael attended Trinity Lutheran School, and later graduated from high school and teachers’ college at Concordia in Seward, Nebraska. He then went on to get his master’s degree in music from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. There he met the love of his life, Jeanne. They got married on All Saints Day, November 1, 1969.
Michael was a called teacher and Minister of Music for several congregations throughout his life, starting at Salem Lutheran in Afton, Missouri; then Faith Lutheran in Fair Oaks, California; then Trinity Downtown Lutheran Church in Houston; and finally, St. Matthew – Westfield in his retirement years. Michael was loved by many throughout his years of service. When he wasn’t playing the organ at church, he could often be found on the golf course, cheering for the Astros and Packers, playing with his grandkids, and eating Bluebell ice cream or Sheboygan bratwurst.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, Alvin, and his mother, Emma. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Jeanne; brother, David (Nancy) Held of Seward, Nebraska; sister Kathy (Pat) Van Gheem of Poynette, Wisconsin; sister-in-law, Joan (Michael) Mikecz of Waukesha, Wisconsin. He will be dearly missed by his children: Carla (Paul) Purcell of Cypress, TX; Lisa (Dennis) Vogt of Carrollton, TX; Jeff (Holly) Held of Tustin, CA; and Jonathan (Elisabeth) Held of Tomball, TX. He was so proud of his grandchildren: Sam, Erica, Amy, Jon, Sara, Nate, Matthew, Anna, and Luke.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith, music, fun, and love. Soli Deo gloria!
