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Michael Douglas Rea
Dec. 19, 1946 — June 6, 2011
MONTROSE — Michael Douglas Rea, age 64, of Montrose, passed away June 6, 2011 at the family home in Montrose. Michael was born Dec. 19, 1946 in Leavenworth, Kan. to John and Roxye (Hollis) Rea. He spent his early childhood in Boulder and Loveland, Colo. In 1964, Michael enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17. He became a Navy Seal and served in the Vietnam War for nine years. After service in Vietnam, he once again re-enlisted and transferred to the Sea Bee branch of the United States Navy and became a master builder, serving around the world for four more years. Through these experiences, he visited 47 countries and went around the world seven times. He remained fiercely patriotic his entire life. After his military service, he trained as a Respiratory Therapist. Mike relocated to Montrose in 1987 and found the love of his life, Jeri. They married later that year. For the remainder of his life, his greatest joy was his family; his wife, Jeri; daughter, Jessica; son-in-law, David Crane; son, Steven; and five grandchildren, Spencer, Paige, Ruby, Camille and Jane.
Mike was a talented artist and a great cook. His other passion was restoring classic cars, and he was a long time member of the Black Canyon Classic Car Club. Mike was loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service, in celebration of Mike’s life, will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2011, at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel. The service will conclude at the chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Crippin Funeral Home, 802 E. Main St., Montrose, CO 81401 (970) 249-2121.
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