Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

August 23, 2023

CHARLOTTE – Michel Anton Badawi passed away comfortably surrounded by his immediate family on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.  Born in Cairo Egypt, on December 3, 1945, to the late Anton and Janette Badawi.  He was the eldest brother to Theresa, Magdy, Maher, Monier and Maurice. 

Michel immigrated to the United States after receiving two bachelor's degrees from the University of Cairo in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Relations.  Upon arriving in the U.S., he began working with multiple engineering firms which took him from New Jersey to North Carolina.  This allowed him to travel the world experiencing every culture he could and forming a network of friends that circled the globe.

In the fall of 1975, during a brief hospital stay at Carolinas Medical Center, the nurses charged with his care decided to play matchmaker and told Debra Bingham about a handsome, respectful, and single engineer.  She decided to swing by the room and the two instantly had a connection. Through many bedside chats the two began to get to know each other and when he was discharged asked Debra out on a date.  On July 15, 1978, the two were married.  

While a successful Engineer, Michel wanted to create his own company.  Using his business acumen, he co-founded Carolina Finishing and Coatings of Kings Mountain.  There he served as president until his retirement.  His retirement was filled with love for his family, friends, and newfound hobbies.  He will be remembered for his caring heart and charming smile.

Michel is survived by his wife, Debra; children, Angele Badawi Bell and Steven Badawi, and granddaughter, Katelyn Bell, who he adored.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at Living Savior Lutheran Church, 6817 Carmel Road, Charlotte, NC.  The family will receive friends following the service at the church.   

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Michel to Hospice of North Carolina, 75 Medical Park Lane, Suite C, Murphy, NC 28906 or https://www.hospiceofnorthcarolina.org/make_a_donation.php.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.