Michael Charles Marsalla, 35, Wichita, KS, passed away August 1, 2019.

Michael was born in North Kansas City, MO, on December 29, 1983, and had the fortunate circumstance to have two homes that he loved so much. He lived in Hermann, MO, with his mother Rozanna and stepfather Greg where he had the opportunity to have the life of hunting, fishing, motocross riding and then come to the city to enjoy city life as a  young adult into his teenage years with his father Pete. Michael was in the Kansas City Boy Scout Troop 80 ending with full honor badges finalizing with an Eagle ranking. He graduated with honors from Hermann High School in 2002.

Michael started his job career first off while in Hermann for Adam Puchta Winery. He excelled in the wine industry and followed through involving himself more into the business as he became involved with the Midwest Wine and Grape Conference. He later joined one of the world's largest distributors of wine, PRP Wine Company in Kansas City, only to become the top producer for them for more than a year but always was in the top 5 producers in the nation. He so loved the wine business, it complimented to his culinary background with pairing foods with wine for many special events that he was asked to assist with that he so much enjoyed doing. Michael's chef background propelled him into when invited to a friend's home or restaurant that all he needed to do was look into their fridge and freezer, what herbs and spices they had and Michael would say "I got this! Just let me have it from here!" He loved to travel when time permitted and was always open to a new adventure.

Michael was employed by Evergreen Pallet, LLC, Wichita, KS, as Business Development Manager and was involved with the Western Pallet Association. Michael's efforts took the company to new highs. Michael's fortitude brought the company to just shy of a 30% increase in sales and set a new industry standard for the cost of custom pallets in the pallet arena. Michael was responsible for most of the day to day operations of the company of the almost 160 employees including hiring, sales bids, service contracts and more. It was nothing for Michael to stop at various places on the property and get out of his vehicle to assist a fellow employee when he felt he could use an extra hand. He was selfless when it came to getting the work done which was needed to make the company succeed.

Michael was an avid wildlife enthusiast. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited as well as a member of a local private club. His passion was obvious in the dedication he had to the sport. He also was a committee member for the National Wild Turkey Federation within the Slate Creek Gobblers chapter. Michael worked with the Slate Creek Gobblers Jakes event. A mentoring developmental program for youth to educate and promote good skills and behavior.

Michael always gave much more than what was required or asked of him. He truly was a man that gave his all to whatever he did for whatever job he was doing! He will be missed by many diverse cultures, people and friends.

Michael is survived by his mother, Rozanna Benz; his father, Peter Marsalla; stepfather, Greg Benz; grandparents, Butch and Kathleen Lipps; uncle and aunt, Sam and Linda Marsala; and aunts, uncles, cousins, and godchildren; as well as his many friends and diverse cultures of people he met.

A Memorial Mass will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday, August 24, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 5106 St. John Ave., Kansas City, MO 64123. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to Slate Creek Gobblers, P.O. Box 268, South Haven, KS 67140.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com