Michael Lou Stafford Jr.

Michael Lou Stafford October 1, 1968 – November 5, 2012 No one on this planet ever wanted to be an alcoholic or a drug addict, but sadly many who succumb, who cannot break free no matter their efforts, eventually fade from the beautiful lively glowing loved ones we know and treasure. Despairingly and despite our best efforts we must watch as they become a shadow of what once held so much promise. Michael "Hawk" to many of his friends had a giving heart, a gentle warm manner, and a smile for everyone. He was born in West Hollywood, CA, to Charlotte and Mike Stafford, Sr. Through various moves, he made his way here to Grand Junction, CO in 1981. He attended school in Fruita. Mike was preceded in death by his younger brother, Billy, who was a victim of a shooting accident in Fruita in 1982. He is survived by his mother, Charlotte Tate (Ron) who always saw through the demons that held him, to the inner person who had so little but wished so much to give; his sister, Michelle (Mark) Berkley, who will greatly miss his warmth and sense of humor; his only daughter, Kristina Myers and her two sons, Michael and Daniel; a niece, Misty Deltonto (Jason); his girlfriend, SherriAnn, and many friends who remained loyal through the years. Mike loved any activity outdoors, fishing, and he loved living in Grand Junction. The family would like to extend thanks and appreciation to all members of our community who help and advocate for the homeless, police, EMT's, all hospital personnel, soup kitchen, Catholic Outreach, and so many others without which many in our community would have no where to turn. A memorial will be held at Whitman park (5th and Ute) Sunday November 18th, at 3:00 p.m.