Michael Green

Michael Green

June 9, 1965 - September 29, 2026

Michael Frederick Green, 61, of Bettendorf, passed away unexpectedly on September 29, 2026, at his residential nursing facility, the Vistas (formerly Iowa Masonic). Michael’s family is grateful to have visited him in the days before he succumbed to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hypertension. Michael’s family is also grateful for the tender and good-humored care of the staff at Vistas during Michael’s four-year residence and for their accompaniment and consideration at the time of his passing.

Michael was a force of nature, embodying joy, laughter, music, dance, and genuine glee in greeting people that allowed him to make friends wherever he went: “My name is Michael. What’s your name?” And later in life, the constant question that would break the ice in any medical situation: “Do you have a dog?”

Michael was born with an unspecified developmental disability that affected his cognition, speech, and coordination but never his heart for the world or his sensitivity toward others’ feelings. His parents decided early in his life that he would go wherever the rest of the family would go: church, swimming, bowling, hiking, vacations, restaurants, the fair, and any festive gathering. Michael loved taking rides along the Mississippi River. The only place he could not go was to a “sit down and be quiet concert” because he was so moved by music that he could do neither one. If there was a band, he was ready to direct it. He had impeccable rhythm (he would clap and dance anywhere) and sang (mostly) in key. He picked up lyrics easily and remembered songs well into his later years – a comforting way to share memories of childhood with his sister.

Michael completed his full education at Truman School when it was dedicated to students with special needs. He resided in group homes from his teenage years through middle-age until he moved into the Handicapped Development Center. Michael blossomed from being with people like him. He was quick to identify others with special needs across a crowded room: “There’s my friend!” he would say excitedly and rush over to meet them.

Michael also bonded with his teachers, caregivers, and church and family friends – not to mention waitresses, hospital staff, musicians, and other performers. Michael both remembered people and was remembered by them: “There’s Michael! I know you!” his family heard frequently (from complete strangers to them) on many outings. Michael remained close with his family through his various residential changes after he moved from the family home at age 16. In his later years at Vistas, he and his family continued to enjoy meals, music, and worship together. Michael loved Jesus – and knew he was deeply loved, drawing quietly on one of his favorite songs: “Jesus loves me, this I know.”

Michael also loved to eat! His favorite foods were bread, cookies, doughnuts (with coffee!), chocolate ice cream, and Happy Joe’s pizza. Michael grew up as Happy Joe’s became anchored in the Quad Cities. One could say they grew up together – so almost every birthday was celebrated at Happy Joe’s. When Michael turned 18, Happy Joe’s sent their antique fire truck to his group home and took all the kids to the original pizza parlor in the Village of East Davenport. Michael is shown with Happy in his obituary photo because that’s also who Michael was: Happy.

Michael is survived by his mother, Ann Green; sister, Stephanie Green Tramel; brother, Christopher Green, and a nephew (Liam Tramel) and niece (Doreen Green-Thomas). Michael is predeceased by his beloved father, Frederick C. Green III. A memorial service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Davenport, on Saturday, November 21, at 2:00 pm. All who knew Michael are welcome to join in the celebration and thanksgiving for his life.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Davenport, and Happy Joe’s Kids’ Foundation.

Online remembrances may be expressed at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.