Obituary of Michael Millard Spence

Michael Millard Spence 54, of Oracle, Arizona, passed away at home December 9, 2009. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Luella. He is survived by his aunt, Betty Holnback and cousin, Sharon Holnback; aunt, Doris; cousins out of state and by many friends. Special thanks to Jody Ipsen for her love and guidance during Mike's final days. Michael was born in Downey, CA, July 12, 1955, moved to Whittier, CA, and then to Gridley, CA for one year with his parents at the age of ten. They lived on his uncle's ranch which fostered his lifelong passion for the outdoors. He moved back to Whittier where he graduated from high school. He entered the U.S. Navy Seabees in 1977 and was stationed in Port Hueneme, CA, Japan, the Indian Ocean and Greece. After his discharge he lived at Havasu Lake, CA where he was the Fire Chief of San Bernardino County. He operated his own welding business, moved to the Triangle L Ranch in Oracle, AZ in 2004 where he was ranch Foreman and also taught welding at CAC Aravaipa College. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and cowboy. He loved animals especially his faithful dog, Amy. Mike was a tough and true character, with a big heart and unique sense of humor. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Oracle Fire Dept., PO Box 977, Oracle, AZ 85623 or the charity of your choice. A Memorial Service will be held at the Triangle L Ranch, Saturday, December 19, 2009 beginning at 4:00 p.m. Details at TriangleLRanch.com. Arrangements entrusted to DESERT SUNSET CATALINA 818-0038.