Michael Papa Nii Addy Akoto

June 16, 1989 – February 15, 2026

Michael Papa Nii Addy, born June 16, 1989, of Portland, Oregon, passed away suddenly and tragically on February 15, 2026 at the age of 36.  He was deeply loved by his family, friends, and community.

Michael was born in Accra, Ghana, to Regina Naa Akuyea Addy.  He spent much of his childhood in Salt Pond, Ghana, attending Salt Pond Primary School before completing his education at Dunkwa boarding high school.  In 2009, Michael immigrated to Portland, Oregon, to live with his grandparents, Obo and Susan Addy.  He valued education and personal growth, earning a Certificate in Housing Inspection from Mt. Hood Community College and, in 2025, completing a Certificate in Peer Support Specialist from Portland Community College.

Michael was a talented dancer and teacher of African culture who shared his passion with the Portland community. He worked as an instructor of African drumming and dance with Arts Learning for All NW, teaching at various schools throughout the Portland metro area. Most recently, he taught students at Irvington Elementary School and Lewis & Clark College, inspiring students through music, movement, and cultural education.

Michael was also an entrepreneur who started his own fragrance line and sold merchandise. He had a deep passion for helping marginalized communities, which led him to pursue certification as a peer support specialist. Outside of his work, he enjoyed playing soccer and staying physically fit. Above all, Michael was a devoted father to his beloved son, Nicholas Obo Addy, whom he loved with all his heart. Nicholas was his greatest gift to the world. Michael will be remembered as a generous, funny, kind, and intelligent man who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Michael is survived by his son, Nicholas Obo Addy; his mother, Regina Naa Akuyea Addy; his father Kwesi; his grandmother, Susan Addy of Portland, Oregon; his sisters, Grace Amoo, Hagar Addy, Susan Banson, and Esther Banson of Ghana; his aunts, Brenda Addy and Debbe Hamada Andrews; his uncles, Ob Addy, Bilal Addy, Nii Armah, and Alex Addy; his brother-in-law, Kingsley Offei; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his son, Zacharias; his grandfather Obo Addy; his cousin, Chata Addy; and his aunt, Kordai Addy.

The funeral service for Michael will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Omega Funeral Home in Portland, Oregon, from 2:00-4:00 PM, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life at Tabor Space, 5441 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97215, from 5:00-8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to Michael’s GoFundMe or donations made at the celebration of life to help honor his legacy.

The family wishes to sincerely thank the community for their generous donations and for standing with Papa Nii during this difficult time. Your support has meant the world to us.