Michael P. Earle, Jr., 30, of Parkway, Niles, died Friday, Dec. 10, 2010 at his home unexpectedly.

He was born March 10, 1980 in Mount Clemens, Mich. to Michael Paul and Janice Lynn (Swift) Earle, Sr. He graduated from Lapeer-West High School, Lapeer, Mich. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business, specializing in parks, recreation and tourism from Michigan State University, East Lansing. He earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Michigan, Flint. He lived in Niles since 2008.

Growing up, Michael enjoying working with his brother and father in his father’s business, Mid-State Carpentry. While in college, he was employed as an intern at the Bay Harbor Yacht Club in Petoskey, Mich. He was currently employed by Niles Community Schools, teaching mathematics at Ring Lardner Junior High School.

He enjoyed the outdoors and wildlife, and living on the riverbank with his pets, including his dogs Muddy and Dusty. His greatest interest was his students.

Michael is survived by his parents, Michael and Janice Earle, Sr.; sister, Maria (Ken) Robinson of Lapeer; brother, Nathan (Saenah) Earle of Elko, Nev.; and nieces and nephews, Justin, Chelsea, Vincent, Hunter and Nicholas.

The funeral service for Michael P. Earle, Jr. will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010 at Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles with the Rev. Janet Van Lear of Buchanan officiating.

The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Contributions in memory of Mr. Earle may be made to the Michael Earle, Jr. Memorial Fund at Ring Lardner Middle School.