Michael Wheeler Tan, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and best friend, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in Phoenix, AZ. Born in Cleveland, OH, Mike was the son of Alfredo and Patricia Tan and is survived by his wife, Holly Tan; his daughters Erica, Dr. Rachel (Alex), and Leah (Ryan); his brothers Steve, Dave, and Paul; and his sister Laura. Mike met Holly in Sterling Heights, MI, and they raised their family in Brecksville, OH, for many beautiful years. Mike moved to his dream location, Arizona, in 2014 and spent 10 incredible years enjoying the beautiful sunshine and the limitless opportunities to ride his motorcycle. Mike was an avid fan and alumni of The Ohio State University who loved Formula 1, volunteering on Sundays with VNSA Books, adventuring through New York City with his sister, and most of all, spending time with his daughters. Mike was outrageously smart. Often referred to as the Dalai Lama by his coworkers, he was somehow always right, regularly completed New York Times crossword puzzles, and would often guess final Jeopardy before the clue. Mike always took his role as the firstborn and head of the family very seriously and treated everyone in his life with that same love and care. He is missed so dearly by everyone in his life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who are able to donate blood in his honor.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by KNXV on Apr. 1, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Tan

8 Entries

Chad Fuller

August 25, 2025

Loved working with Mike. He was a really nice person and a pleasure to work with. Rest in peace.

Stacy Baker

May 19, 2025

So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I had the pleasure of working with Mike about 10 years ago. Mike and I sat next to each other, and I especially looked forward to our first-of-the-day conversations where Mike shared what he called his "useless bits of knowledge." These were interesting facts about all sorts of topics. Mike was so smart and retained everything he ever learned or read! One funny story I can share about Mike is when he bought a YoNanas machine and starting eating ice cream every night. Imagine the horror when Mike, always so lean and trim, realized that even ice cream made from fresh bananas can make you gain a few pounds when you eat mass quantities every night! haha But the thing I remember and admired most about Mike was how much he adored Holly and his girls. He spoke of them all the time and took great pride in his role as husband and father.

Jade Fenchak

April 7, 2025

Michael Tan may you rest in peace. I enjoyed delivering each and every package to you, and recently had the pleasure of delivering your big work anniversary gift to your desk. I will always think of you when passing your desk. I'm heartbroken for your wife and family. May God carry your loved ones through this heartbreaking time.

Shawn White

April 4, 2025

Mike I hope you get that final ride into the sunset! Rest in peace my friend!

Katrina Simon

April 2, 2025

My condolences on your loss. Mike was my co-worker for years and whenever I hit a roadblock I would always call him for advice. You could always hear him smiling on the phone as he patiently listened and then gave sound advice. He will be missed and I will definitely cherish the times I was able to spend with him.

Shawn,kelly,Gene, Flo White

Planted Trees

Elena Putman

April 1, 2025

My sincerest condolences to Holly and the girls. They were everything to him, and not a day went by that he didnt rave about them. I worked with Mike for a short time and am so grateful for the conversations we had. He was one of the more compassionate, intellectual people I've known, and the world is poorer for his loss. Even though we hadn't seen each other in years, I was still very fond of him and am in total disbelief that this has happened.

Scott Raney

April 1, 2025

Mike, I cannot express my sadness. You were not just a great colleague but became a good friend. I'll truly miss you. Scott

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

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8314 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020

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