Michael A. Jordan's Obituary
Michael A. Jordan of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away November 12, 2014 at Gulf Coast Medical Center due to complications with lung cancer. Born in Cleveland, Ohio on September 1, 1948, he moved on his own to Detroit, Michigan in 1964, and remained in metropolitan Detroit until moving full time to Fort Myers in 2011. Michael quickly found his passion in the restaurant industry and was instrumental in developing and growing Olga’s Kitchens, Inc., where he worked for over 30 years before retiring as the company’s president and chief executive officer. He was known as a dedicated leader and a father figure to many. He led by example, and worked tirelessly and selflessly for the betterment of the company, his employees, and his family. He was married to Judith E. (Naukam) Jordan on October 17, 1970, and they were together until Judy’s passing in 2007. Michael and Judy were very active with their two sons in Berkley, Michigan, were avid golfers, and enjoyed spending time with close friends within their communities in Michigan and Florida. Michael spent his last six years with his partner, Carole Putt, and with her, they took great pleasure in exploring new places throughout the world, and seizing every opportunity to laugh, dance, and enjoy life to the fullest with a large group of cherished friends and family. Michael’s success in the hospitality industry carried over to his life at home, as he was a dear friend and touched the lives of so many people. He was a generous listener and always looked for opportunities to help others and make them feel special. Michael was a consummate host, and he especially enjoyed seeing others feel warm and welcomed. There was never an empty glass or an unfulfilled appetite. He is survived by his two sons and daughter-in-laws, Bradley and Stephanie, and Scott and Janet, and four grandchildren, Davis, Brady, Alexander and Katherine. A celebration of life is planned to be held at The Forest Country Club, 6100 Club Boulevard SW, Fort Myers, Florida 33908 on November 21st at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the LUNGevity Foundation, or to the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida.
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