Michael Macri Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Anthony Macri Jr., who passed away at the age of 71 on February 18, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Born on January 20, 1954, Mike was the son of Michael Anthony Sr. and Mildred Macri. He was raised in the Windsor Heights area of Des Moines, where he developed a love for the outdoors, often found exploring the woods around Walnut Creek and Grey’s Lake with his childhood friends. 

Mike attended St. Theresa’s Elementary School and later graduated from Dowling Catholic High School (Class of ’72). He played football under the leadership of his much-revered coach, Jim Williams, and often recounted stories of his time on the field. His time at Dowling left a lasting impact, and led Mike to generously support his alma mater later in life through scholarship giving.

After high school, Mike attended Simpson College on a football scholarship. It was at Simpson that he met Audrey Joy Tomlinson, the love of his life. They were married in 1977 in Des Moines and soon after welcomed two sons, Michael III and Matthew.

Mike joined his father, Mike Macri Sr., in real estate, where he developed, brokered, and managed numerous commercial properties throughout the Greater Des Moines area for over 40 years. Mike always believed that “a handshake means something” and prided himself on his ability to “think through it” – seeing the big picture before others.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mike’s true happiness came in his lifelong passion as an outdoorsman through fishing and hunting, which he fondly shared with his children and grandchildren. Every year, he spent several weeks during the summer fishing on Lake St. Joseph in Ontario, Canada where he created lasting memories with family and friends. He cherished the opportunity to welcome first timers, eager to share his knowledge of the sport, reveal the best fishing spots, and prepare his famous “Italian shore lunches”. He was legendary at the camp. 

Anyone that knows Mike knows that cooking and sharing meals was his love language. It was a means to gather, share stories, create memories and, most importantly, enjoy time alongside his beloved, Audrey. In retirement, he enjoyed cooking with Audrey and watching his grandchildren grow and followed their activities. 

Mike is survived by his wife of 47 years, Audrey, and their two sons: Mike III (Kristin) and Matt (Megan). He was also a proud grandfather to Michael IV (Cael) (15), Mason (12), Cameron (10), Amelia (10), Kate (7), and Maeve (5). 

Mike was presided in death by his father (Michael Sr.), mother (Mildred), and Sister (Marsha Stanton).

Mike’s family will be holding a private family funeral, followed by a celebration of life at Grand Living retirement center in West Des Moines where they resided on Friday, February 21st from 12:30-2:30. Mike’s final wishes for his final resting place will be at his beloved Lake St. Joseph, where his spirit will live on in the place he loved most.