Michael Don Gavin's Obituary
Michael Don Gavin was born November 5, 1947 at Tacoma General Hospital in Tacoma, Washington. He passed away August 15, 2016 in Reno, Nevada after a long struggle with complications related to COPD. Mike was the oldest son of Don and Bernice Gavin. He taught mom and dad to expect the unexpected. He kept them on their toes. Mike was the older brother to Gwendalee Franzen and Scott Gavin. He was always good to both of us.
Growing up, we lived in various locations throughout Washington. These included Tacoma, Walla Walla, Yakima, Bellevue, and Mercer Island. In 1966 Mike graduated from Mercer Island High School. Shortly after graduation, Mike married Judy (Shara) Martinez. They had two daughters, Trina and Tracy. A few years later, Terry Page and Mike had a third daughter, Janelle Page. It was at this time that Mike moved to Kirkland, where he and Scott shared a house across the street from their sister, Gwen. It was here that Mike met Sally Matthewson. They were together for several years.
After a few years, Mike and Scott both decided to move to Reno, Nevada, to deal poker at various casino’s.Mike loved fast cars, corvettes in particular, motorcycles, music, poker,the Seahawks, camping, and gold mining. But, most of all, he loved his girls, grandchildren, his family, and getting together with family and friends.
Throughout his life, Mike did things his way, and on his own terms. He was sometimes perceived as being unconventional or maybe a bit rebellious. But, for those who knew and loved Mike, they soon became aware that this was how Mike lived his life. He always had an opinion, whatever the topic, and he wasn’t afraid to speak his mind. He often spoke of how proud he was of his girls.
Mike was very patriotic and spiritual. He loved his country, and two of his favorite tv shows were “Touched by an Angel,” and “Little House on the Prairie.” Mike loved to put on a “tough guy” exterior, but he was a kind and loving softie inside. Mike, we love you, and you will be greatly missed.
Mike is survived by the following:
Mom: Bernice Gavin
Brother: Scott Gavin
Sister-in-law: Dawn Smith
Sister: Gwendalee Franzen
Brother-in-law: Gary Franzen
Daughter: Tracy Benson
Son-in-law: Rob Benson
Granddaughter: Olivia Benson
Granddaughter: Julia Benson
Grandson: Cooper Benson
Daughter: Janelle Page
Grandson: Jayden Page
Grandson: Skyler Page
Daughter: Trina Hedgecock
Son-in-law: Drew Hedgecock
Niece: Breanne Clark
Nephew: Gavin Joshua Franzen
Nephew: David Franzen
Nephew: Cody Franzen
A Graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 2:30pm, Mountain View Memorial Park in Lakewood, WA.
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