Obituary of William Gordon Michael

William G. Michael 

July 26, 1948 – June 20, 2023 

 

William (Bill) Michael was a beloved husband, a loving father, a fun uncle, a loyal friend and a trusted coworker. He was a closet shaman who understood the value of silence, the Christ within. He dismissed others’ hate and deceit, forgiving ignorance. He had deep, long lasting relationships. 

 

Bill found joy with his bird dog Flicka and his rescued mutt good Omen. He loved meeting his family for birthday celebrations. Often, he’d rather sit in the expansive shade of his Norway maple or chat with a neighbor than go on a hectic vacation. 

 

He loved food with a passion, especially his Mom’s ginger cookies and strawberry rhubarb pie. He enjoyed going out for an early breakfast or grilling out on his new deck. 

 

Bill was a quiet intelligent man, an experienced heavy equipment mechanic who could decipher the most onerous instructions. He was a talented woodworker, meticulous in his craft. 

 

Bill lived with “fast growing” prostate cancer for 18 years and far outlived the doctors’ predictions with both modern and integrative medicine. We are grateful he is free of pain in Spirit where there is only love. 

 

Preceded by his Parents Norm and Olive Michael, Survived by Wife Diana Michael, Son Kenneth Dean, Siblings: Norma Olmscheid (Tim), Jim Michael (Nancy), Gayle VanClay (Bruce) Nephew: Adam VanClay, Nieces: Taylor VanClay and Annemarie Olmscheid. 

 

We will remember and honor Bill’s life this fall with a celebration in his backyard and workshop.