Michael was born in Marshalltown, Iowa, the oldest child of Max M. and Frances (Honold) Brewster. He grew up in Albion, where he was active in Boy Scouts and developed the curiosity that would guide him throughout life. When the Albion School District merged with Marshalltown during his 8th-grade year, it gave him the chance to pursue his strong interests in math and science. He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1967 as a National Merit Finalist.

After a year at Marshalltown Community College, Michael transferred to Iowa State University, where he studied chemical engineering. While at ISU, he played on the interscholastic badminton team and served as president of his residence hall, Ayres House. He also worked part-time for the Marshalltown Water Works, a job that became a lifelong career. Michael worked there for 45 years before retiring in August 2015.

Michael was a man driven by curiosity, logic, and a love of learning. He had a lifelong passion for science and history and was always interested in facts, data, and evidence–never content with assumptions or half-answers. An independent thinker, he valued reason over noise and clarity over convenience. That intellectual rigor earned him membership in Mensa and the Triple Nine Society, honors he wore quietly but with pride.

He also believed strongly in service and personal responsibility. Michael was a lifelong blood donor beginning in 1971, and upon his death, he donated tissue through the Iowa Donor Network, continuing to help others even after he was gone. He was a member of the NRA and held firm, deeply considered principles.

Among his many interests, Michael had a special love for family history. He was a charter member of the Central Iowa Genealogical Society and continued researching and documenting family stories until quite recently. He closely followed Iowa State athletics, especially basketball. And when he wasn’t reading or researching, he could often be found admiring–or riding–his beloved 1957 Harley-Davidson, which brought him a great amount of joy.

Michael will be remembered for his sharp mind, his insistence on truth, and the thoughtful conversations he sparked with those around him.

He is survived by his daughter, Michele (Brad) Beeler of Pierre, South Dakota; his sister, Mara (Philip) Munroe of Neenah, Wisconsin; and his nieces, Carol (Heather) Munroe of Port Washington, Wisconsin, and Lydia (Matthew Smith) Munroe of Chicago, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, John (1960-1990).