MICHAEL BLAND

Michael Reginald Bland departed this life October 11, his 62nd birthday, in the Bronx area of New York. He was born in 1954 in Columbus, OH to Lawrence and Thelma Bland. He was a graduate of Central High School and ran on the track team. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served from 1973 to 1981, attained the rank of U.S. Army Specialist 4 and received an honorable discharge. He learned medical technology skills while in the service working in an overseas clinic. Michael enjoyed taking cooking lessons as a hobby in junior high school. He also loved to go fishing with his father. Michael had a lifetime passion for sports, especially baseball, football and basketball, and often ended his voicemails to family rooting for the local winning team. While growing up he loved going to baseball games of the former Columbus Jets. In New York, where he had lived for the past 25 years, he worked as a custodian at Yankee Stadium, which gave him an opportunity to see the New York Yankees play. In his youth, Michael was a member of Bethany Baptist Church under Pastor William Hansen. Michael is preceded in death by his father, beloved uncle, Albert Bland; and grandmother, Rachel Bland. He is survived by his mother, Thelma Bryant; aunts, Arnetta Stinson and Helen Bland; sisters, Melissa Bland, Brenda Hammonds, Deena (John) Hughes, Robin Loney and Tracey (Vic) Bryant; brothers, Eric (Cher) Bland, Andre Bryant, Kevin Bryant and Sean Bryant; special friend, Gerald Gentry; uncle, Paul (Sylvia) Lethridge; and aunt, Lillian Avery; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Celebration of Life Saturday 11am Chapel of CALIMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, 3700 Refugee Rd, Pastor John H. Wallace, officiating, where the family will receive friends 10am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Michael’s name to: Veteran’s Association, 35 E. Chestnut Ave Suite 512, Columbus, OH 43215. Interment Union Cemetery. The family of Michael Bland wishes to thank the many family and friends who have brought meals, called, messaged, prayed, sent cards, gave hugs, and in many other ways supported us during this time of loss.