Barboursville, Virginia
Michael Eliot Sturges
Michael Eliot Sturges of Barboursville, Virginia, died at home on Wednesday, August 8, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. Facing colon cancer with dignity and faith, Michael remained active and fully engaged in his church, profession and family life until recent weeks.
Born on January 22, 1958 in Los Angeles, California to the late John and Dorothy Sturges, Michael was raised in the film industry. He earned a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1981. Michael's professional career included working as an assistant director, a stockbroker and a writer. Employed at the University of Virginia in various capacities since 1996, he worked the last five years in the position of Technology Planning Coordinator and earning the respect and admiration of many of his colleagues.
Above all else, Michael's biggest passion was his family. His free time was spent with them in various ways: tossing balls around, coaching teams, cheering at soccer games and swim meets, attending Father/Daughter dances, bringing his children to church each Sunday. Michael thoroughly enjoyed spending time with youth and served as a youth leader at Church of Our Saviour Episcopal Church. His legacy is one of faith, hope and love in good times and in bad.
Michael is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his children, Matthew, David and Anna; a daughter by a previous marriage, Kelly Sturges; his sister, Deborah Wyle; his mother-in-law, Kathryn McAuliffe; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Donna McAuliffe. A funeral service will be held at Church of Our Saviour 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 15, 2012. The committal will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Church of Our Saviour, 1165 East Rio Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901 or to Hospice of the Piedmont, 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 300, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.
I knew Michael briefly when we were tour guides at Universal Studios. He was a friendly, decent, ingenuous person. I have never forgotten the impression he made on me.
Michael Briand
December 22, 2017 | Chico, CA | Coworker
Michael, I think of you often and cherish your letters and emails -- you couldn't have been more supportive when I was working on your father John's biography. You'll always be a class act in my mind -- smart, compassionate, brave ... a great family man.
August 06, 2013
Candles ascending to the heavens...
Michael and I were great friends years ago, when he still lived in Los Angeles. I connected with him a few times since, and was pleased to know that he found happiness in his marriage and family.
My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Gregg Moscoe
December 30, 2012 | Sherman Oaks, CA
The light burns in the darkness, and the darkness had not overcome it.
Lori Holloway
October 09, 2012 | Des Moines, WA
I was so saddened to hear of Michael's passing. I had occasion to talk to Michael several times when I was writing a biography of his father, director John Sturges. Michael couldn't have been more encouraging, supplying priceless anecdotes on growing up with one of Hollywood's great action directors. He also got me in touch with James Garner, who knew I was "on the level" because Michael vouched for me. I will always cherish my time spent with Michael, a gentle souls.
Glenn Lovell
September 01, 2012 | San Jose, CA
Hello My name is Gladys Brown, I am very sadden by this news,i used to work with,Michael's father John back between 1963-1964 has a house keeper, while working for the sturges Michael was a very sweet and smart child from what i can remember. Im not sure if the sturges family remebers me, but i remember them especially the two children, Michael and Debra. There came from a very sweet and respectful Family and well raise by there parents. Everyday i think about the days i worked there and...
Gladys Brown
August 25, 2012 | Albuquerque, NM
Our prayers go out to you and your family
Caleb and Daniel Sims
August 19, 2012 | Ruckersville, VA
Mike was not only a friend, but an inspiration for those who seek the example of warmth, kindness and integrity. I, too, have always admired Mike's compassion. We will miss him dearly.
Michael and Jill Clarke
August 14, 2012 | Free Union, VA
I had the pleasure of working with Michael at UVA. I knew he was someone special from the first time I met him. He was always so kind and thoughtful and I just knew he was a believer in Christ. He was highly respected and loved by all.
Phyllis Eanes
August 12, 2012