Michael Edward McCombs

Just moments after he was seen tapping his toes to the sounds of Elvis that filled his home, the mere thought of taking his dancing talents to the afterlife was too enticing and Michael E. McCombs passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026.

Mike was the third born of three brothers by Rita Waller and Walter (Waddy) McCombs on January 6, 1943, in Ravenna. Those who remember that day say that the earth shifted off its axis for a moment due to the universe preparing for the 30,321 days that Mike would inhabit this earth.

Mike was an incredible father that was always the biggest fan of his children, Michael and Stacy, even if it meant getting kicked out of a little league game ... twice. Raised in Kent by his Aunt Eleanore McCombs, Mike was an accomplished athlete at Kent Roosevelt and would regularly let you know just how good he was, even if you weren't asking. An avid golfer, many eyewitness accounts noted the accuracy at which he threw his clubs after a misplaced shot.

Speaking of sports, Mike loved all Cleveland sports ... although, he had more of a love/hate relationship with the Browns. Mike loved Notre Dame football, and one of his greatest memories was seeing them in person in South Bend in 1992 – a game in which the Fighting Irish won on a 2-point conversion in a snowstorm, as time expired.

Mike loved his country and served as a corpsman in the Navy, followed by a 32-year career at the VA Medical Center.

Mike always had a charm and charisma about him that was undeniable and is what made him adored by ladies and gentlemen alike – but especially the ladies. Mike's Elvis impersonations were that of legend, with his last performance taking place only one year ago. His home away from home, The Kent Canadian Club, that he affectionately called "The Club" was a place where he spent time with many new and lifelong friends. He may have stood just 5'8 (or 5'9, depending on the day and the shoes he was wearing), but his presence was that of a giant. Mike was one of a kind and always did it "his way." He will be greatly missed by many. We love you Dad.

Mike was preceded in death by his brother Patrick McCombs and sister Bobbie Antes. He is survived by his brother Dan McCombs (wife Joyce McCombs); sister-in-law Dolly McCombs (wife of Patrick McCombs); his partner Lorraine Davis; children Michael and Stacy McCombs Updyke; and granddaughter Brooke Ripley.

In honoring his wishes, Mike will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at the Kent Canadian Club on Saturday, January 24th, 2026, from 1:00-4:00PM.

Arrangements are being handled by Bissler and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.