Michael C. Mack

Michael "Mike" Mack, a beloved husband, father, brother, friend, and faithful servant of God, passed away on his 63rd birthday on August 24th, 2023 doing what he loved on a bike trip in Colorado with his friends. He was born in 1960 in Deer Park, Ohio where throughout his life, he touched the hearts of countless individuals with his unwavering dedication, unyielding spirit, and unending love.

Growing up as the youngest of four children in a Catholic family, Mike learned the value of determination early on. Mike was diagnosed with Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 11, a battle he courageously fought throughout his life by showing remarkable resilience and inspiring all who knew him. Throughout his life, Mike embraced his passion for basketball and mountain bike riding pushing himself to excel.

Mike's educational journey took him to St. Xavier High School where he honed his academic skills. His love for Cincinnati led him to attend the University of Cincinnati where he became a Bearcat cheerleader for three years and wrote for the campus newspaper. In 1983, Mike graduated from UC with a degree in finance and economics. In 1988, Mike went on to begin his master's program at Cincinnati Bible Seminary. While working on his master's program, he began his career with Standard Publishing, were he served as the Assistant Editor for The Lookout magazine. Mike continued to blend his passion for writing and his commitment to sharing God's word when he became editor in 2017 of the Christian Standard.

Mike founded smallgroups.com, recognizing the potential of the internet to connect and equip church leaders. His vision for supporting and empowering small group leadership resonated globally, and the website's influence expanded internationally, becoming a ministry under Christianity Today, Inc. In addition to his innovative contributions, Mike also served in ministry roles at various churches, including Bethany Christian Church in Anderson, IN, Foothills Christian Church in Boise, ID, and Northeast Christian Church in Louisville, KY. His dedication to fostering community and nurturing spiritual growth left an indelible impact on those he ministered to.

Mike's influence extended beyond the pulpit as he operated Small Group Leadership, a ministry that provided guidance, coaching, and support to leaders and church ministries. He shared his wisdom through workshops, seminars, and conferences, equipping others to follow in his footsteps of servant leadership. A prolific writer and editor, Mike composed eight books and over 25 discussion guides, using his talent to illuminate the path of faith for others. He was in the midst of yet another book project, a testament to his unwavering commitment to sharing his wisdom and insights.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and unbreakable determination. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Mike is survived by his wife of 33 years, Heidi, their children Jordan, Dru, Sarah (David), Anna (Eric), special daughters, Emily (Becca) and Kennedy, his siblings Kathleen, and Joseph (Patty), and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service to celebrate Mike's life will be held at Northeast Christian Church (9900 Brownsboro Rd, Louisville, KY 40241). Visitation will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023 from 4:00pm-8:00pm.

Visitation will also be at the church on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 10:00 am until the time of the funeral service beginning at 11:00 am with burial to follow at Floydsburg Cemetery (5600 Old Floydsburg Road, Crestwood, KY 40014).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The
Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Northeast Christian Missions, or a charity of your choosing.

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