Michael John Flis

Michael John Flis, 58, of Sylvania, died peacefully surrounded by his family in his home on May 11, 2018. The son of Philip and Jane Flis, Mike was born in Toledo on December 16, 1959. He was a 1977 graduate of St. Francis de Sales High School and a 1982 graduate of the University of Toledo with a Bachelors of Business Administration. While there, he was active in the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, where he met life-long friends. He met the love of his life, Robbin, in 1985. After just a couple months of dating, they were engaged and married in 1986. Mike and Robbin founded Northwest Ohio Pension Retirement Services in 1989, which they owned and operated together. Mike and Robbin continued to work together in Retirement Services throughout his whole career, most recently with The Huntington National Bank. Mike was currently Senior Vice President and National Practice Leader of Retirement Plan Services for Huntington. His successful career achievements were accomplished not just by his professional aptitude, but even more by his compassionate and caring interpersonal relationships he developed with all those he encountered. Paramount to Mike’s career was his devotion to his family. Mike was a loving and devoted husband, father, son, and brother. His life was centered on his family and his faith. His favorite thing to do was spend time with his sons; playing, coaching, joking, listening, teaching. He considered their growth into compassionate, strong men his greatest accomplishment. He also loved being a fun uncle and was always quick with jokes that brought joy to many. Mike especially loved vacationing with family to Captiva Island, a special place where they were able to share countless memories. Mike excelled at many activities, favorites of which included water and snow skiing. His esteemed ability to teach others allowed for many memorable and cherished skiing trips with family and friends. In 2003, Mike was diagnosed with kidney cancer and had multiple recurrences. Despite this disease, he had an eventful and joyful life over the past 15 years. He became very involved with the American Cancer Society of Northwest Ohio, where he served as president of their board for two years. He also became involved in and an active participant in Pelotonia, which is an annual bicycle ride to raise money for The James Cancer Center in Columbus. The money raised funds fellowships, scientists, and equipment for cancer research and treatment. Through his rides, he raised thousands of dollars for Peletonia. Mike was an active member of St. Joseph Parish in Sylvania participating and leading in numerous church and school activities, and maintained involvement at his high school alma mater, St. Francis de Sales. He lived his life modeling the St. Francis de Sales motto “Sauviter et Fortiter” which means “Gently but Firmly.” With his gentleness and kindness always present, he remained strong in the face of adversity and persevered with dignity. He is survived by his wife, Robbin; sons: Michael Jr. (Caitlan), Andrew, and Mark Flis; sister, Nancy Flis; brothers, Dan (Nancy), Dave (Margaret), and Matt (Michelle) Flis; parents-in-law, Frank and Jeannine Duval; sister and brother-in-law Lorren and Scott Ruetz; and six nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Jane Flis. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, May 15 from 2-8pm, at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. The funeral will begin with prayers at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 16, at 9:30 am followed by the Funeral Mass at 10 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 5373 Main Street, Sylvania. Entombment will follow at Toledo Memorial Park. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the American Cancer Society or St. Francis de Sales High School. Online condolences may be shared at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.