Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Michael DeTar Obituary
Michael (Mike) Ray DeTar, beloved husband and father, went peacefully to be with the Lord on July 29, 2020 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Mike was a retired Major with the LCSO and previously a Captain with the Tice Fire Dept. He was both proud of and passionate about his 37 years in public service.
Mike is survived by his loving wife Sandy DeTar, daughter Cheryl Carson-Soave (Chris), sons Michael Ray DeTar II, Eric DeTar (Erin), stepdaughter Stephanie Callahan, stepson Mike Callahan, and eight grandchildren; Marrissa Cochennic, DJ Cochennic, Jennifer DeTar, Steven Carson, Isabella Carson, Olivia Willis, Jack DeTar and Raelyn DeTar. He also leaves behind 3 brothers, Jeff DeTar(Paula), Stephen DeTar (Becky) and Jerry DeTar, along with numerous extended family members who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father George DeTar, his mother Mary DeTar and his daughter Kimberly Russell (Jim).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael DeTar
Sponsored by The News-Press.
Lisa
July 29, 2023
Loved me some Cap´n. Mike
That face he made when he was trying not to laugh or when he looked at Sandy. Priceless and precious. And I would have eaten anything he cooked including my own shoe. He handed over the keys to his new motorcycle no questions asked and didn´t even blink when I narrowly missed hitting a tree. He was a one of a kind man and he is missed.
Lenny Goukd
June 8, 2021
Great mentor!!!! Took me under his wing and guided me to the officer I am today.
Marty Baer
June 7, 2021
Mike was like a second Father to me. You couldn't ask for a better person to mentor you. Mike was a True Gentleman and I truly miss him. Until we meet again.
Teresa Fewell-DuBois
June 7, 2021
Mike was such an amazing mentor, friend and leader to Ronnie and to all the rookies and the deputy explorers.
He and Sandi have always been good to my family. He was such a good man to everyone who knew him and he will be so greatly missed by everyone.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Kim Vayo
June 7, 2021
He was a wonderful man to work with. He set the example for a young officer coming into a crazy world, he was the calm reassuring voice that made you feel welcome. The world is missing a great man but I’m sure he’s keeping them smiling in heaven.
Carol Denty
June 7, 2021
Mike DeTar was always a gentleman, an awesome LEO and a pleasure to work with .
As a dispatcher, we had much interaction.
Never was he anything but calm, professional and unfailingly kind.
He was a true friend to all of us at Lee Co SO.
Through him I met Sandy , who has become a dear friend.
I know he is loved and missed by his devoted wife and family, and will watch over them until they are reunited in Heaven.
Mike DeTar was truly one of the " good guys". RIP , my friend ❤
John and Carole Meyer
August 11, 2020
Mike was a wonderful and loving husband and one of my best friends. He was always there when you needed him. He loved his country and embodied what we should all strive to be. He will be greatly missed.
Steve Edlin
August 10, 2020
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Kris Cella
August 10, 2020
Mike was one of the kindness people I ever met. He was funny and had the biggest heart. His love for Sandy was always obvious. Some of my favorite memories was Mike petting and talking to my horses, he didn't know I was watching but it made my heart smile. I know he is golf carting somewhere in heaven and smiling at all of us. My prayers are with all of you, I know that it's not going to be easy but I hope you know how much he was loved by all.
Bill Kalstrom
August 9, 2020
Mike was a dedicated and loyal public servant. He was a man of integrity and commitment. I will never forget him. Rest in peace my friend.
Ann Blum -Winstead
August 8, 2020
I really didn’t know Mike to well until his brother married my daughter. The time I was around him he was very quiet and soft spoken. He liked my Texas sheet cake .He will surly be missed by all! RIP Mike. Family is in my Heart and Prayers!
Melissa Kribs
August 8, 2020
I can’t think of MIke without remembering the parties on Randy and Arlinda’s lanai many years ago. So much fun. Mike will be remembered for his loving ways with everyone he came in contact with. You are all in my thoughts.
Terry Smith
August 7, 2020
I was proud to be able to call Mike a friend. He was a true friend, one of the best. Rest in peace Mike.
Post Family
August 7, 2020
So sorry for your loss, your family is in our prayers.
JIm Blanco
August 7, 2020
It was a pleasure working with you and having a great time doing so. RIP
Ron Scheall
August 7, 2020
Rest In Peace Mike I remember our days working together. You will never be forgotten
stanley howard
August 7, 2020
Mike was one of my first training officers when I started with LCSO Special Deputy squad in 1984. I rode many nights with him in Z9 and East Ft Myers. He showed what to do and the right way to do it. Thank you Mike, I'll never forget you and the times we had together.
Lisa
August 7, 2020
Capn was always wonderful and welcoming to me and mine + assorted stragglers I would come with. Always calm always smiling even when I came an inch away from wrapping his new Harley around a tree. He just laughed and shook his head. He seemed to do that a lot with me. An AMAZING man a true southern gentleman and made the best BBQ Brisket I have ever had. He touched so many lives. RIP Capn Mike
Cecilia Palumbo
August 7, 2020
To my niece Sherri and all the DeTar family prayers for your healing from your loss. I know Mike is watching over everyone with his parents and Kimmie.
Valli Finney
August 7, 2020
David and I are remain praying for all of you. Mike was an awesome deputy and David was proud to have served with him. I will never forget how he treated me as a journalist - he was so kind. One day I was leaving the PIO office and Mike was right outside the door. I am glad I had that conversation with him. He and I know what it was about and it helped me to write an article that I didn't want to have to write. He was a blessing in so many ways. Hugs from the David Finney Family. We will never forget him and are here for you Sandy.
Larry C. Miller
August 7, 2020
RIP Brother, thanks for your service and memories, we got it now
Mary Jo
August 7, 2020
First I'd like to say Sandy I am so sorry for your loss for everybody's loss. I will always remember Mike as being the most kindest gentleman to me, always with a smile on his face. My fondest memories are the times we went to your house for a barbecue. Sitting around the fire talking, laughing and making memories. Riding the golf cart or jumping on the trampoline. But the best part of the night was Mike's cooking. His killer ribs and brisket. I tell you that was the best I've ever had in my life. I pray that you and your family will find the strength in all the memories that you have with him to continue to honor him and smile when you think of him. Thank you to Sandy and Mike for being Who You Are. A beautiful couple who I am grateful to call my friends
Mary Ann Evan's Lee
August 7, 2020
Since our names were alphabet close, Mike and I were always only a seat or two apart all through school. He ALWAYS had a twinkle/smile in his eyes...I can still see it vividly. You fought an awesome fight and I'm sure your twinkle is lighting up Heaven. Peace to you.♡
Laurie & Mike Peak
August 7, 2020
Dearest Mike, I pray you are resting comfortably in peace in your heavenly home — NO MORE CANCER, SICKNESS OR BROKEN BODY! Will definitely miss you. Our deepest condolences to Sandy, and your entire family. May they find comfort in the love of family and friends. RIP
Showing 1 - 26 of 26 results
Make a Donation
in Michael DeTar's name
Memorial Events
for Michael DeTar
People and places connected with Michael
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Michael's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Michael DeTar's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
