Michael Von Kanel

Michael Allen Von Kanel, 70, of Helena, AL passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2021. Mike was born on October 4, 1950, in Columbus, Mississippi to Lewis and Madge Von Kanel. As a graduate of William Carey College, he spent many years in full time ministry as a music minister at churches in Mississippi, Florida, and Alabama. He also had a long time career in sales. His parents, Lewis and Madge Von Kanel of Pascagoula, MS, and his nephew Landon Von Kanel of Tupelo, MS precede him in death. He is survived by his wife Teresa Handley Von Kanel; their three children, Brent (Brittany) of Vestavia, AL, Katie Willard (Zack) of Helena, AL, and Ryan (Kaylee) of Pearl, MS; his daughter Casey Reese of Murfreesboro, TN; his grandchildren Lily, Scott, and Ruby Von Kanel, and Harper and Bowen Willard; his siblings, Randy (Cindy) of the Cayman Islands, Danny (Beverly) of Franklinton, LA, and Rita Smith (Greg) of Helena, AL. He is also survived by several nephews and nieces. Other family members include Teresa’s parents Douglas and Ruby Handley, and Teresa’s siblings Greg (Jan) Handley, Nancy Hicks, and Kim (Bruce) Blackmon. Mike was a devoted member at Westwood Baptist Church in Alabaster, AL where he taught the Senior Adult Sunday School class. He loved them dearly and served them well. Mike was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. All who knew him were reminded constantly of his love for them. He loved God and wanted everyone he met to know the reason for the hope he had in Jesus. The family will receive visitors from 11:00-1:00 on Saturday, April 17, at Westwood Baptist Church in Alabaster, AL. The celebration service will follow at 1:00 at the church. A graveside service will be held after the service at Jefferson Memorial Gardens South in Hoover, AL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to the Missions Fund at Westwood Baptist Church in Alabaster, AL. Their website is https://www.gowestwood.org/. Click on Give on the top right corner, choose “Memorial Gifts”, and choose “Missions Fund” when designating your gift.