Mike left this world on August 31, 2018 on his own timetable. He spent 3 days on life support before briefly awaking to give kisses, hugs, and say, ”I love you and goodbye,” to all of his children, family, and many of his friends. We will miss this honorable man with a great sense of humor, charm, and generosity.
Mike was a recovered alcoholic and for over 33 years he served as a sponsor and mentor to many men and women in recovery. He was also very active in serving those in search of recovery.
Mike retired from two careers, the first from Mountain Bell/US West, and the second from Utah Transit Authority. Before he started his working career, he received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, where he was home ported in Yokosuka, Japan. He also spent some fun time working at Fishlake Resort, and even assisting in firefighting with the U.S. Forest Service.
Mike married Carol Wantland, and later divorced, then married Deborah Lawrence, and later divorced. Mike has been married to Shirley Anderson Chase Ohlson for over 25 years. Mike and Shirley had a unique and loving relationship. They were supportive of each other through both joy and hardship. They did not have the time or need for anger in their lives. Mike kept a written copy of their wedding vows in their home, as a proud display of their commitment and love.
Between Mike and Shirley, they have 3 adult daughters and 2 adult sons: Kimberlee Ohlson Shafer and husband Troy Shafer, Tracy Ann Chase, Brian Eric Ohlson and wife Hallie Andrea Ohlson, Steven Scott Ohlson and wife Elizabet Covarrubias, and Jennifer Elisia Phillips and fiancé Travis Irvine. They also have two grandsons: Eric Shafer and wife Jordynne Burr Shafer, and Daniel Shafer, and one great granddaughter Kaylee Shafer, whose hugs melted his heart. They also have one sister Kathleen Marie Ohlson, and one brother Chris Lynn Anderson. Preceded in death by one sister Carla Arleen Ohlson.
Mike enjoyed the outdoors, including camping, duck & deer hunting, and fishing. He was on bowling leagues for years. He enjoyed history and the Zoo, Arts, and Parks including visiting State and National Parks. Bryce Canyon and Fishlake were among his favorites. He especially enjoyed doing those activities and spending as much time visiting those places with his children and family.
One of the strongest descriptions of Mike is Pride. He lived his entire life proud of his family, proud of his ethics, proud of his service in the U.S. Navy, and proud of his country, to name only a few. The love he felt for each and every person that his life touched shown in his eyes. He made friends in every situation he found himself in, even the times that were difficult. Respect was therefore awarded to him, and he was always valued and held in the highest esteem. His work ethic and passion for assisting everybody on the job and in daily life also found him devoting time and generosity in service to others. An example of Pride in all things. Mike will be dearly missed by friends and family alike.
We will be holding a celebration of life on Saturday, September 15 2018, from 11:00am to 1:30pm at Arbor Manor, 2888 West 4700 South. Friends are invited to have a cup of coffee and share their experiences and memories of Mike at that time. Please join us in celebration. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice or one that you feel Mike would appreciate.
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