Michael Edward O'Toole

Michael Edward O'Toole passed away in Broomfield, CO on September 24, 2019. He was 71 years young.

Michael (Mike) was born June 21, 1948 in Waterloo, IA, the son of Emily Cartwright (Fisher) and Roger “Terry” O'Toole. Michael was the third of 4 boys (Tom, Denny, and John O’Toole). Mike grew up in Newport Beach, CA and was a 1966 graduate of Newport Harbor High. Michael married Cynthia Fraker in 1969 and they had 2 children (Emily & Patrick). His second marriage to Lee Shaw lasted 15 years. 3rd times’ a charm- he married the love of his life, Noreen (Hein Phillips) on Dec. 7, 1996. Over the years he lived in Marshalltown & Des Moines, IA, Carlsbad, Solana Beach, and Leucadia, CA, Koloa, Kauai & most recently in Thornton, CO.

Michael did a variety of things in his lifetime that all make for great stories. He owned a variety of businesses- a “head shop” (Elysian Fields), discotheque (The Pig Pen), pet grooming & kennel (Man’s Best Friend) and most “recently” Pelly’s Fish Market and Café in Carlsbad (opened in the mid-80’s and still running strong). Michael was huge into music and was most passionate about the Blues. His record and CD collection is second to none. He also loved going to movies and watching flicks at home. He loved watching & talking about sports- especially football & golf. He was proud to tell anyone that he once had season tickets for the Iowa State Cyclones.

Mike definitely stood out- he had what he called "The Gift of Gab" and would spark a conversation with ANYONE. Michael was the most giving and caring person and would always check in to see how things were going and hopefully tell or hear a good story. Common sentiments about Mike- “heart of gold”, “wears his heart on his sleeve”, “an old softie”. And he NEVER shied away from a hug and saying 3 important words: “I love you.” Later in his life he kept a close eye on his friends and loved ones, commonly sharing posts or comments on Facebook. He had strong opinions and was a great story teller. His style was unmistakable- “aloha” shirts or t-shirts from his favorite places, flip flops, shorts, and a cool hat was his go to.

The closest thing to Michael’s heart was his family, which include his wife- his rock- Noreen, children Emily Austin (O’Toole) & Patrick O'Toole, son-in-law Chad Austin and grandchildren Lane Austin, Kaden O'Toole, Kaylee Austin and Reece Phillips. Mike and Noreen traveled the world creating countless memories. They moved from Kauai to Colorado after the birth of their 3rd grandchild- they didn’t want to miss a thing. Mike was so proud of those grandkids. He loved hearing about school, sports, friends, etc., taking them to movies, “helping” with homework and watching them play at the pool. When they would do something great or take a particularly “model-worthy” picture, he’d always say- “They get that from me!”

In addition to the above listed family, Michael is also survived by his older brother Dennis O'Toole (wife Trudy), sister-in-law Elaine O’Toole (Thomas) stepson Todd Phillips, mother-in-law Marge Hein, 5 nephews & 2 nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents (listed above), step-father Harold “Spot” Cartwright & brothers John & Thomas O’Toole. There will be a celebration of life for Michael on Sunday October 20th from 12-4pm at the Ranch country club in Westminster CO. Michael will be laid to rest next to his mother at Riverview Cemetery in Marshalltown, IA on October 26th.