Louis "Bud" Kanyo

Bud Kanyo, a beloved husband, father, and educator, passed away on August 28, 2025, at Trinity Health St. Mary's in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 49. Born on September 27, 1975, Bud was the cherished son of the late Stanley Lee Kanyo and Effie Esther (McPherson) Roeder.

Bud was the best friend one could have. His laugh was contagious, radiating warmth to those lucky enough to hear it. His passion and appreciation for deeper thinking were evident in his character. This passion guided him throughout life. This led him to pursue higher education with dedication, earning a bachelor's degree from Saginaw Valley State University, a master's degree from Central Michigan University, and ultimately earning a Ph.D from Michigan State University in 2015. As a Doctor of Philosophy, Bud specialized in curriculum, instruction, and teacher education.

Bud is the beloved husband of his wife Candi. They met in 2000 and married on April 27, 2002, in Gladwin County. Bud and Candi built a family, having four children: Hannah, Madison, Aubrey, and Logan, who continue to honor and carry his legacy. He was a proud father who expressed his unconditional love and support for his children. This love stemmed from his devotion, love, and care for his wife.

For 21 years, Bud was a senior professor of English and Humanities at Mid Michigan College, where he was admired for his compassion, understanding, and wit. Bud would encourage his family, friends, and students, when faced with difficult times, to heed Aristotle's teachings of logos when they are tempted to respond with pathos.

Outside of his professional life, Bud enjoyed snuggling with his dogs, watching sandhill cranes fly over his pond, playing board games with family, reading comic books and novels, making people laugh, attending his children's extracurricular activities, watching Christmas movies with his wife, and sharing coffee with friends and family.

Bud's legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and countless students who were touched by his kindness, wit, and wisdom. A private family service will be held to honor his memory.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a gift to the Humane Animal Treatment Society (HATS) Donate Here