February 24, 1953 — February 8, 2019
Michael Luverne Reese was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on February 24, 1953, the third of seven children born to Willie and Geraldine Reese. Michael grew up in North Minneapolis and attended Willard Elementary and Lincoln Middle School before graduating from North High School in 1969.
After graduation, Michael worked at The Way and the Minneapolis Athletic Club, but soon he was hit by the “Entrepreneur Bug” and sought to go into retail for himself. And so he did! In 1988, he opened Michael’s Apparel on West Broadway in North Minneapolis and did quite well.
In 1991, he sought to further his business scope and moved the business to Lake Street in South Minneapolis under the name Michael’s Hip Hop Shop, where he was the only shop that sold hip hop apparel.
His business continued to grow until in May of 2018 a fire consumed the South Minneapolis building and he was forced to relocate. The new location in Midtown Global Market offered some challenges when it took him out of his desired environment, but he persevered and was able to get things up and running and was soon settled in.
Michael loved life! Besides being a “pool shark,” he enjoyed playing cards, skating, and discussing Black history. But most of all he loved his relationship with Jesus Christ. As a result, he joined Open Door Church in 2007 and later united with Grace Temple Deliverance Center in 2009, where he remained a faithful member until his death.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, Willie Reese, and his brother, Jerome Patterson. He leaves to mourn his passing his beloved wife and life partner of 45 years, Camille (Kandi) Finn-Reese; mother, Mother Geraldine Reese; brothers, Lonnie Patterson, Donnie Patterson, Jerry Patterson and Malik Reese; sisters, Gloria Reese and Cynthia Patrick; children, Davona Guilmont, Jatira Saunders, Matrece (Marla) Carter, Joe Williams, Michael (Christine) and Andre Reese; grandchildren, Camille Williams, Mia and Lorena Atlas, and Tye Carter; and a host of other family, friends, associates and acquaintances.
Support Black local news
Help amplify Black voices by donating to the MSR. Your contribution enables critical coverage of issues affecting the community and empowers authentic storytelling.
I knew Michael at Willard, Lincoln and North. He was a memorable show man and entertainer. Michael was a Large Personality.
Sorry that we never connected after school. I would like to have known him as an adult.
My sincere condolences to Camille and all of his family and friends.
Just heard of his passing from a coworker. He will be truly missed. Prayers to his family.
Nikki and Magic