Michelle Hart-Jahraus

Michelle Hart-Jahraus, 68, passed away the morning of July 22, 2025, after courageously battling Lewy body dementia. Born on December 6, 1956, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Michelle’s passion for learning and art blossomed early and continued to flourish throughout her entire life. Her unwavering faith guided her and inspired a deep appreciation for God’s colorful creation and nature. Michelle’s vibrant acrylic paintings graced homes, businesses, and her gallery on the Leelanau Peninsula. Her work was featured in several prestigious art magazines, Art Prize, and in 2013 her painting of an orchard reflected in a cherry was selected to grace the cover of the National Cherry Festival program. She was an active member of the Glen Arbor Arts Center, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Leland Old Art Building, and Northport Art Association. She enjoyed painting and exploring around Leelanau Peninsula with Doug and her dog Dory.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Michelle loved playing basketball in high school, was a graduate of Wheaton College, and most of all was a loving wife and mother to her children. She found joy in beach walks, running, yoga, gardening, reading, dark chocolate, cooking and knitting. She was loved by so many people and will be greatly missed.

Michelle is survived by her beloved husband, Doug Hart, children (Teya, Issa, Morgan, Trevor, Zach, Katie, Kaley, and Diana), and nineteen grandchildren … and counting, ranging from one to sixteen, all of whom adoringly call her Nana.

A visitation honoring Michelle was held at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St. Traverse City, Michigan 49684, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 2-4 p.m., followed by a private family coronation and scattering of ashes. To honor Michelle’s passion for children and family adoptions, donations can be made in Michelle’s memory to Catholic Charities.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Michelle’s family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com