Michael J. Samuels

Michael Julian Samuels, age 76, of Ocala, Florida passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. Mike was born on March 7, 1950, in the windy city of Chicago, Illinois. He attended high school in Chicago and culinary school in Minnesota. He was a fabulous chef and an even better baker. Often, if he knew you were coming to visit, he would have baked your favorite dessert, whether it was chocolate cookies or lemon bars.

Mike had a deep love for the outdoors and especially enjoyed fishing. A fan of all sports, baseball was his favorite. He was a devoted Chicago Cubs fan and rarely missed a game. His knowledge of sports was so extensive that he was often teased about being a sports broadcaster.

Mike was a man of strong faith and an avid music lover. He possessed a truly hardworking spirit.

Left to cherish his memory are his siblings: Janice Stewart and husband Derek, Joel Samuels and wife Valerie, Claudia Samuels and Kristi Samuels along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends.

Mike was predeceased by his father, rhythm and blues vocalist and pianist William “Bill” Burl Samuels; his mother, Shirlee Schutte (nee), and his two brothers, Stephen and William “Loy”.

Acknowledgement

The family of the late Michael J. Samuels acknowledges with deep appreciation the staff at Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care. The care and comfort displayed to Mike and the family was monumental, above and beyond what we could have hoped for.