Michelle Alaine Durbin

Michelle Alaine (Powell) Durbin, age 51, died peacefully at home surrounded by family in Harper Creek on Thursday, May 11, 2023, following a short illness.  Michelle was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, the daughter of Larry and Sharon (Segee) Powell, on June 1, 1971.

Michelle graduated from Lakeview High School in 1989.  Throughout her school years, she loved playing softball.  It was a point of pride that her father coached her during her early years before playing for the varsity team at Lakeview High School.  Upon graduation, Michelle was employed at EPI Printers before beginning her career in the family business at Midwest Communication Services in Battle Creek.  She led the business operations for more than 25 years while providing a warm, friendly, and caring environment that made everyone feel comfortable and respected.  She designed and built her own home in Harper Creek, where she raised her two sons, Trevor and Kevin.  She was happiest around her boys and so proud of their accomplishments.  Trevor graduated from the University of Michigan College of Engineering in 2022.  Kevin is entering the University of Michigan College of Engineering and will begin studies in the fall of 2023.  She made many new close friends through their school years and summer sports activities and treated them all as family.  Michelle was a special friend to all by offering encouragement, helping with a problem, sharing laughter, and always being there when you needed her.  She enjoyed celebrating the holidays with friends and family.  Christmas was a special time with decorated trees in every room and her ability to give a thoughtful, funny, and useful gift.  During the summer balloon festivals, she chased balloons with her sons in the early mornings and evenings.  Profound thanks are given for all the love, compassion, and support the family has received from all of those Michelle touched during her lifetime.  She is survived by her sons, Trevor Durbin and Kevin Durbin; parents, Larry and Sharon Powell; brother, Larry Powell II (sister-in-law, Robin Powell); sister, Stacy Powell; nephews, Anthony Powell, Larry Powell III, and Webster Powell; niece, Morgyn Powell, as well as many close friends.

The family will receive friends on Monday, May 22, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services.  Memorial service scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Tuesday May 23, 2023 at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, envelopes available at the funeral home.  Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org