Michael De Simone, a 51-year-old Washington state father and Army veteran, recently announced his own death in a self-written obituary that has captured national attention and been hailed as "the best obituary ever."

De Simone died on August 21, 2026, from a cardiac event, according to his friend Mark Campanella. Earlier in the year, De Simone had suffered a stroke. His obituary, published by the Centralia Chronicle, was crafted with the same humor and spirit that characterized his life.

"Michael De Simone regrettably informs you that he is no longer alive," the obituary began. "This was not the plan. He expected to be alive somewhat longer in order to do many more things. Unfortunately, there was some measure of disagreement between his mind and his body, and the arguments made by his body were, in the end, more persuasive."

He lightheartedly noted that he exited the world as he entered it: eating pizza. De Simone, who was 51 at the time of his death, found peace in his age, humorously comparing it to a dog's lifespan. "He was 51 years old when he died, which is young for a man but quite old for a dog, so he left the world at peace in the knowledge that he outlived many, many dogs."

A native of Maryland who lived in Olympia, Washington, De Simone considered himself an avid traveler. He visited every continent except Antarctica, reflecting on his journeys by comparing himself to a 12th-century nobleman. "Compared to a 12th-century nobleman, he basically saw the entire world, and he wasn’t even a nepobaby like some king."

Despite his cheerful tone, De Simone acknowledged the pain his passing would cause his loved ones. "The one big downside to not being alive is not being with the people one loves, and he loves a lot of people a great deal," he wrote. He expressed his profound love for his wife, Daisy, whom he met in high school and who remained his "sweetheart" through military service, raising a family, and becoming grandparents. "They never stopped being sweethearts, and forever sweethearts they remain."

His love for his two daughters, Johanna and Dani, was described as "greater than creation." He apologized for the timing of his death, stating, "Michael is, again, very sad to bring this news to you. It wasn’t much fun to receive."

De Simone was honored at a funeral service on Friday morning and was laid to rest in Centralia, Washington. His unique obituary resonated with many, with strangers on social media praising his sincerity and wit. Comments included "Best obituary ever" and "What an incredible loss, God Bless his family."