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Friday, June 1, 2018
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Darla Shaw (Cline) posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 8, 2005
Dear Oatman Family: Words can not express my shock and sadness... I also grew up on Olympia's lower eastside, and went to school with Mike from fifth grade on up. I had not seen Mike for years, and it was so neat to see him at our last high school reunion and catch up on what we'd been doing since the previous reunion.
The last time I saw Mike (on his was to a game!), he was still the same 'kid from the block' that I remembered from grade school,
only better. I'm thankful to have known him. What a guy!! !! He is and will be missed. :(
R
Robin (Everson) Fink posted a condolence
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Dear Oatman Family. What can I say, grade school, Jr. High, and High School I always had a crush on him. I was sitting with my mother when I read Mike's name in the paper. She had cancer and just passed away herself Sept 26th. I was totally shocked. It seems that I just saw him recently ( 4 years ago) at a NTHS reunion. We were both surprised to see each other there. I will never forget the fun we had with your family, camping, our parents getting together to play cards, going to my families bay house to play on the beach and watch Batman in color at your house for the first time. I remember Mike, Mike Caparoon and I getting in trouble in our music class in Jr. High because we were always talking. Please know that our thought are still with you and your family. Patty, I think Kristie fells the same way. Wow, what a blow!
D
Debbie Pollom posted a condolence
Monday, September 19, 2005
My sister Cindy Freytag just told me of Mike's passing...she taught his son in high school. Even though I haven't seen Mike for many years, we had a great time in high school at Olympia High, and I will always remember him as a great looking, great personality, wonderful person! My condolences to his family.
j
jill moyer { makos } posted a condolence
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Dearest Oatman Family. It saddens my heart and it's so hard for me to believe that I will never see Mike again. He was a huge part of my life and I feel so blessed to have shared such memorable experiences and adventures with Mike through our high school years, and then to have even continued our friendship thru all these years. From that very 1st day at Oly High Mike, captured my heart with his beautiful develish smile, sparkly eyes and charismatic approach. Stepping on the back of my shoe to ask me to the homecoming dance, well of course I could'nt resist. Wow !! My first love ,who taught me so much about friendship, passion, chemistry and just having a damn good time! I loved this man with all of my heart . He was definitely one of the best chapters of my life.......Sadie hawkins, proms, dances,concerts in seattle, Hiking Mt. Rainier, skipping school, Pollom's beach house, ward's lake, Dechutes river, Shakey's and all of our late nite parties and Hang'n at Eagans with Oopie, Joe S., the Ross's, Stamy, Bradshaw's, Pitcher and the list goes on and on. The good old day's. It was definitely a pleasure reconnecting with all of Mike's siblings ,children, family and friends on Friday nite. The stories were all so unique and brought back so many stored memories. With all of the love, warmth and energy that surrounded Mike and his family on Friday nite, I felt a peacful closure. My prayers are with you and my deepest sympathy's goes out to all of you at this difficult time. Mike truly touched so many peoples lives and his happy spirit will remain in our hearts forever and always. God bless you all.
M
Mary Walter posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
My sincere sympathy to the Oatman family. It has taken awhile for me to write this but I did just want to say what fun it was at Washington Jr. High. I will never forget the many nights spent out wandering the streets of the eastside as we all snuck out of the house. The wonderful days at Ward's Lake. It was really a fun time in my life, and so sorry to hear of the loss of one of those in my memories.
S
Sarah (Haskett) Zerby posted a condolence
Monday, September 12, 2005
Dear Oatman family,
I was so sorry to recently hear of Mike's death. I have since then been thinking a lot about Mike.
My clearest memories of him are during the special era of attending Washington Jr. High. Mike's smile and friendly, animated way.
He seemed to be always in the "hub" of it all. Something was always going on during those days. Such a great time to be young and "spirited."
My thoughts are with you...
P
Pat, Patti, Kevin Lee and Charles Perisich posted a condolence
Monday, September 12, 2005
Dear Oatman family,
We were so saddened to hear of the loss of Mike. We wish we would have been able to see all of you at the Salmon Club, but we were unable to attend.
My mom, Margaret, has passed away. However, Chas Perisich, my dad, still lives at 419 S. Boundary. He is 88. He reminisced how all of the Oatman kids were hard workers and did carpentry and yard work for him. My parents thought the world of all of you kids. Mike had a very outgoing personality, and we all thought he was so handsome and fun. We remember your mom, Helen, being so proud of him and all of you.
I (Patti) remember when we were all very young playing school. I did turn out to be a teacher.
We remember Mike getting in a few youthful fights in the churchyard after school. Mother, Margaret Perisich, always watched from her corner window and worried. But Mike was able to defend himself well, and the young girls always looked on admiringly.
Patti loved all of the good times with the Oatman kids. She and Marty were one year apart. She sends her best to him. They were good friends.
Patti, husband Pat, and son Kevin enjoyed Marty and his family when they lived in Olympia. Please accept our sincere sympathy. Tell Marty to get in touch some time.
The write up in the paper was so nostalgic. We enjoyed the comments about the neighborhood. Our love to all of your family and Mike's children at this very difficult time. Your old friends, Charles Perisich, Pat, Patti, and Kevin Lee. 905 Wilson St. N.E. Oly., WA 98506
c
callie barnhill-martin posted a condolence
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Thanks Marty, Larry, Patty and Tommy for letting us share in your memorial for Mike. The stories were awesome to listen to. I know there are so many more stories that didn't get told. It has long been in my mind to put together some of the stories from growing up in that eastside neighborhood. If you have anything to say or share, you can email me at starcjm@aol.com. What I remember is a fun, loving and always interesting place. We sure did have good times and it is a part of my life that really shaped who I am today. Patty, you reminded me about our old dog tiger and I had forgotten what a weirdo she was. I'm glad I got to talk to you again. Marty, it is always great to talk to you. I think you have gotten to lead a really interesting life. Larry I can't believe that you live so close to Mary. Call Eddie, I know he would love to talk to you. 963-2816. And Tommy, you are the one I hadn't seen for many years, but you are still the rascal (I think so) who used to swipe my change along with my brother steve so you 2 could buy cigarettes!!
A couple years ago I was able to hear Maya Angelou speak in Seattle. As she told the story of her life, she would say - this one piece is not who I am but just a piece. Maybe not the most important piece but a piece. Now I will keep on keepin' on to see how this story will end. take care. callie
L
Larry and Carol Larson posted a condolence
Saturday, September 10, 2005
We were always glad to catch Mike at the Capital Football games. It never felt as fun unless we sat with him to root for John and the Cougars. He was such a generous guy. He welcomed us into the neighborhood and made us feel like part of his hometown gang. Gosh, it's hard to believe we won't see that smile again. John and Lindsey, your Dad was one of the good guys. Be comforted knowing that he was so proud of you and loved you beyond measure.
J
Jeff and Jan Cereghino posted a condolence
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Dear Marshall (Larry) and Oatman family,
I can't imagine your loss. If I lost my big brother, I don't think I could get up in the morning, yet, all of you did. You have to go on. I didn't really know Mike. I just saw him at some parties that Jeff and I attended. However; he did make an impression. It seemed like, when he entered a room, you just had to stop and pay him homage. I loved the gladiator image painted for us by Dick, because that is what Mike was, the perfect warrior hero. He was a beautiful person, and Jeff and I are sorry he is gone from this earth. Larry, as big brothers go, it is lucky for you that you have two. If I should die before my big brother, I hope he will rememeber me as beautifully and as elloquently as did Marty. It had to be a difficult assignment. Our love goes out to you all. Love, Jeff and Jan
P
Paul and Suzanne Nagel posted a condolence
Saturday, September 10, 2005
I was a close friend of Tom's growing up at Madision elementary. I definetly remember Mike. He really was someone we all looked up to when we were kids. I remember him and Tom distinctly getting me to say something during recess when I was in the second grade and then teasing me about it. I thought I was going to get in a lot of trouble at the time. He was my friends older brother having fun with us smaller kids. That was really a beautiful write up in the paper it truely captured the way I remember it as well. All my condolences are with you.
Paul Nagel
L
Liv Larson posted a condolence
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Linds,
Im sorry I wasnt there on Friday, I wish I could have been. You have been in my thoughts everyday since I heard about Mike. He was always so kind and full of life, and he loved you so much. He lived for you and John, anyone could see that in his eyes...whenever anyone mentioned either one of you, or whenever he was at your volleyball games or John's football games he just glowed with pride and love. Im so sorry Lindsey. If there is any thing I can do, or if you need anything let me know. I dont have your number since you moved, but I am still at my same cell number...whenever you need someone to talk to Im here for you, I truely mean that.
I love you tons and I am so deeply sorry,
Liv
D
Damon Oatman posted a condolence
Friday, September 9, 2005
It is hard for me to believe that I will never see Mike again. But the day has come where all of us that loved him pay our respects. It's obvious reading the other entries that he touched the lives of many people. I personally have some of my favorite memories spent with Mike and my cousins. Boating in the summer, swimming at the cabin, helping him and my uncles build the deck at his home. I will miss him greatly and only wish I could have spent more time with him now that I am an adult. Thanks for the great memories.
C
Charley and Norma (Brooks) Crowe posted a condolence
Friday, September 9, 2005
Our deepest sympathy to the Oatman Family, ours hearts go out to you during this difficult time.
T
The Shelmerdines posted a condolence
Friday, September 9, 2005
We have very fond memories or your Dad. We moved into the "neighborhood" 14 years ago and remember your father as being one of the few people to welcome us. We have good memories of fishing off Cooper Point and I have a wonderful picture of Sara, Bill and Mike with their catches. Our thoughts are prayers are with you.
Bill, Katie and Sara
J
Joan (Wilson) Roulst posted a condolence
Thursday, September 8, 2005
To; The Oatman Family. I am so very saddened by the sudden death of Michael. My most recent memory of Michael was always seeing him at the Capital High School football games. Always sitting in the same spot. So proud and happy to watch his son Jon play. Michael always happy and friendly. I will never forget his beautiful smile and his fun personality. I will always treasure my memories of Michael. My love to the Oatman family, Joan Roulst.
J
Julie (Stamey) Clark posted a condolence
Thursday, September 8, 2005
Mike will be missed greatly, but remembered fondly by all. I had the pleasure of growing up with him in our family's life, and he always had a positive outlook and was very kind. Hopefully the "Mikeabalooza", as brother Dick calls it, happening on Friday evening will help bring a happy closure to this great loss. I wish all the family my deepest sympathy.
L
Lucinda Cannella posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 7, 2005
We are blessed with Mike's walk through our lives. He is a loved memory. A memory that becomes a treasure. His death is a reminder that there are few things in this life that we have control over. We do have control over the choices we make in our lives though. We can chose to focus on the 'gifts' that were brought into our lives by Mike and use these 'gifts' in living our lives to the fullest. May we cherish each moment with Mike and each moment we are living. Life has taught me to depend and trust in my creator. We can't change the past and we can't change the future so let the memories be unforgettable.
Mike is a great loss to all of us but memories will tell how great he was and of happy times with him. My heartfelt sorrow for the Oatman children, family and friends. I share in your loss and my prayers are with you.
M
Michele Campbell posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 7, 2005
To; Allison, Jon and Lindsay,
From Michele, Derek, Jenna and Todd we are very sorry to hear of Mike's death.
I've known Mike for many years as I too grew up near him. Mike was always fun to be around and had a very contagious smile that made his eyes sparkle even more than they were.
I also remember when you lived on the Waddle creek road and how much your dad loved being your father.
With sincere sympathy, Michele Campbell
M
Maureen (Jensen)Quemada posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
My sincere sympathy to the family of Michael Oatman.Michael had the original role in our "Wonder Years" growing up in Olympia at Washington Jr.High.We all have a special memory of him that would make you smile. I'm glad he had a part in my life.Aloha Mike.
J
Julie Mauerman McCuiston posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
Hi Guys....I was so sorry to hear of Mike's death. I send my deepest sympathy. I lost my sister Sue three years ago, so I know how hard it is to lose a sibling prematurely.
I will remember Mike forever young. ( and handsome ) We grew up at a magical time & I will be forever grateful for all of my wonderful friends who shared those days with me & my family.
I will try to stop by Friday. Take care, Julie 360-786-1007
J
Jeni McReynolds Swanson posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
Marty, Larry, Tommy, Patty and Families - I was so sorry to hear about Michael's accident. I did see him before he moved and had a wonderful visit with him. He had a very special place in my heart. I will be out of town the day of the service. I do wish I could be there. I will be thinking of you. JENI
J
Jeni McReynolds Swanson posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
P.S. What a wonderful obituary. Not an easy task, but an incredible treat to read under the circumstances. JENI
B
Bree Oatman Reynolds posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
I miss you all and wish I could be there with you this weekend. It was a tough decision not to fly back to the US mainland. I wrote the following about Mike in my journal.
September 2, 2005
1:39 p.m.
Saipan, MP 96950
"Where America's Day Begins"
Dealing with the aftermath of a storm involves a lot of cleaning up of messes, waiting for life to get back into the flow and hoping the next storm doesn't come for a long time. Losing a loved one is similar and being 5,000 miles from family adds a layer of guilt for not being closer to home, regret for not keeping in touch and a sense of hopelessness because there is little you can do to comfort family.
Last Saturday, my uncle died in a car accident in Washington State. He was a huge football fan, along with my dad's other brothers and there was always a game on TV at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. In the summer it was baseball. When I was little, he lived in a house with a spectacular view of Mt. St. Helens. I used to love playing on the rought iron spiral stair case that led up to the loft style bedrooms in his house. I remember when he took me fishing for the first time at this marshy wetland behind his house. I caught a small bass and I remember the algae stuck to my clothes after swimming in the water. I remember Mike and my other uncles conducting experiments with yellow jackets and microwaves, and passing a plastic doll through a candle flame covering it's butt in carbon that wouldn't wash off. I remember wondering if Lindsey would be traumatized by seeing her dolls blackened behind.
I remember having 4th of July barbeques at their house near Eld Inlet. Once, I sailed from their house across the inlet in a styrofoam sailing dinghy my uncle won in some contest. I got stuck on Cooper's Point and was too scared to sail back. I called him from a stranger's house and he came across the inlet to get me.
At parties, he always encouraged everyone to "eat more" which I took to mean, enjoy yourself. I loved his laugh and bright smile.
I hadn't seen him in a couple of years and regret not seeing him more often. I'll miss him. I love you all, stay in touch.
(670) 256-1975 uncheesybree@msn.com
K
Kelly Ryan posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
My deepest condolences to your family for having lost Mike. He was just the nicest guy in the world. Seriously. Nobody better than Mike. I loved him like he was my brother. Always, he had a smile on his face & a sparkle in his eye when I would see him. Never once did I see him not that way. Unfortunately for me I moved away from Olympia but always made sure Mike was invited to any function I happened to be involed with. Sometimes, when he could, he would show up in Ellensburg, Seattle or just 4 years ago at the South Bay Grange. He was with his buddy, Dick Stayme. And sure enough, Mike was smiling. Having a good time with everybody, generally bringing life to the party. So that is how I will always remember him---which is the same when I first met him. He was truly a gift to all of us. Again, my deepest respect for your family on your loss. Godspeed.
J
Jennifer Brandt-Allen posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
Bree's message took me back in time to all the family gatherings I was fortunate to be part of for the 19 years Marty and I were married. I was excited by each approaching holiday because it meant we'd all be together and those were wonderful occasions. My thoughts are with all of you at this time and while I wish it was under different circumstances, I look forward to reconnecting with the whole family this Friday. I miss you all too!!!
L
Leslie Dunbar (Zilsdorf) posted a condolence
Monday, September 5, 2005
I'm so sorry of your loss. I went to grade school with him. He was a very nice boy and I'm sure a very nice man. It's hard to see people our age and somewhat of a shock to read bad news. My prayers are with you all. God Bless.....know that he is home(: Leslie
J
Joan Mackey posted a condolence
Sunday, September 4, 2005
I was very saddened to learn of Mike's death. I didn't know him well in high school (which by the way, your description in obituary was right on) as Mike was one of the really cool kids and we hung in a different crowd. One of the things I do remember though was his kindness and chivalry. Despite not being part of the in-crowd, Mike was very nice to me. I remember a party we were at where the cops came. I was there with another "underage" girl (okay we were 17), and Mike was great about making sure that we got out to safety -- it was so cool! I thought he was very charismatic -- there was just something about him. I know your loss is great. My thoughts are with you.
D
Davis family posted a condolence
Sunday, September 4, 2005
Hey Oatmans:
This is the Davis family; Frieda, Lynn, Tom/Chuck and Elsie.
Our sincere condolences for the loss of Mike. It is always a shock when we prematurely lose someone filled with so much zeal for life. And thanks for your atypical obituary (did I detect a bit of a Geoduck flavor in it?). It is a fitting tribute for an atypical personality like Mike’s.
Mom is still living at the family home on 5th Ave, and her phone number is 352-9985. Lynn lives in Keyport. Chuck and (wife) Elsie retired from law enforcement two years ago. We spent this summer with mom, on break from our 2nd year operating a mission base in the Philippines. We’d like to go to the memorial celebration on Friday, sharing memories of Mike and his practical jokes, but we are flying back to the Philippines on Tuesday.
If you have time to stop by, Mom would love to chat with you.
And if you are interested in communicating with Chuck and Elsie, we are available at either negocc@juno.com or cdavis98512@yahoo.com.
Our prayers are with you during your time of bereavement.
The Davis family
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