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Michael Stith Obituary
A service of remembrance will be at 4 p.m. Friday at Eagle River Funeral Home. A gathering of friends and family members will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Eagle River.
"Mike wanted his ashes scattered in the backwoods and waters of Alaska - from Flattop Mountain to Alyeska to the Russian River to the Resurection Bay," his family wrote.
Mr. Stith was born April 8, 1957, in Fairborn, Ohio, to Carol Stith Henline and Ray Stith. He graduated from Chugiak High School in Eagle River, obtained an associate's degree from the University of Alaska Anchorage and had many years of on-the-job training in the flooring and interior design industry.
Mr. Stith came to Alaska in 1962, living in Tanana, McGrath, Eagle River, Anchorage and back to Eagle River in 2006. He was the sole owner of Flooring Solutions since 2005. He worked for Transformations Design from 1987 until 1993 and for East Side Carpet Co. from 1993 until 2005.
His family wrote: "Michael was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing of all types - from fly-fishing most any stream in Alaska to deep-sea fishing from Resurrection Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. His father often said 'Mike can catch a salmon out of a bucket.' He loved camping, hiking and biking and took joy in exploring the outdoor beauty of Alaska with his family. He enjoyed many sports such as wrestling, softball and football. Mike bowled in league tournaments, both men's and mixed teams for many years and often finished the season on the championship team. For several years he and his wife competed in couples cribbage tournaments with their good friends, the Thomas, Walther and Kerr-Horseman families. All who knew Mike were well aware of his love of the game of poker, and we dare say he has taken the pot from many here in the Anchorage area.
"Above all else, he was the ultimate playmate and teacher, in all capacities, from swimming and putt putt golf to kite flying and pottery painting to all of his aforementioned hobbies and special interests for his daughters, Lili and Michaela, who were certainly the pride and joy and greatest accomplishment in his life."
He is survived by his daughters, Michaela and Lili Stith of Anchorage; mother, Carol Stith Henline of Buckeye, Ariz.; father, Ray Stith of Eagle River; sisters, Beatrice Brown of Federal Way, Wash., and Cynthia Zinakova of Puyallup, Wash.; extended foster family, Linda, Fred and Jason Arrington of Anchorage; nieces, Cerita Edwards of Goodyear, Ariz., and Erin Flack of Burien, Wash.; and ex-wife and dear friend, Andrea Lynne Oaks of Anchorage.
His family wrote: "The absense of Mike will leave a void in the lives of his many relatives and wide variety of lifelong friends and work associates across the country - from St. Louis, Mo., to Buffalo, N.Y., to Knoxville, Tenn., to Clearwater, Fla., to Oregon and Washington to California and back to all of Alaska. Particularly close to his heart of late were his sincere friends Charlie Horseman, Ross Walther and Steve Ramsey."
In lieu of flowers and to benefit his daughters, the family requests donations be sent to the Mike Stith Memorial Fund, account 2246551432 at any Wells Fargo Bank.
Arrangements are with Eagle River Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Stith
Sponsored by Cynthia Zinakova.
Chris Coleson
April 13, 2023
Mike will always be with me in my heart and soul. I was so lucky to have him in my life.
Cynthia Zinakova
April 13, 2023
On Mar 24 it has been 15 years you've been gone. It's hard to contemplate hiw much you are missed. But even sadder is the thought of all you've missed. Your beautiful daughters graduating college and making meaningful contributions to society. Our father passing and now Harold, the men who loved and cared for Mom. Cerita's beautiful family and successful career. ErIn's college graduation and successful career. Fun times with grown cousins on both sides of our family. I talk with Eli regularly. Lillian lives in Texas. Mom's family is in Texas, and mom is with both sisters. We just have to hope you can see what we're up to until we can be with you again. Hope you're fishing, hope you're at peace. You are loved. I miss laughing with you most of all. I miss you, little brother!
Mike and I at Bea and Don's wedding
Cynthia Stith Zinakova
March 23, 2020
Hi little brother! Hard to believe it has been 15 years that you have been gone. I miss you so much tonight - losing the two men I admired most on the planet in one summer was too much. It sure wasn't your job tot protect me, but I felt like I had to grow a thick skin to fill the gap. You were larger than life, both of you. You've missed so much.- you ave the most amazing girls! All 3 of them (including Lynn) are such amazing women. There is such a hole in my heart, and I fill it with alll the good memories. As I was choosing photos to put on Facebook, I noticed that they all had that grin that I love so much. At least the fish are catching a break right now! Happy fishing in that great beyond! Play some chess with Dad and stay away from the card table! I love you always! Look down on all of us and keep us safe. Love you, Mike!
Steve Ramsey
March 22, 2020
I stop by here every few months, it's nice to see other people do too! We all have our Mike stories. Most of mine are work related but if anyone ever wants to put them together I'd be happy to type them all up and send them to anyone who wants. [email protected] if anyone is interested. Steve
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Tammy
March 21, 2020
Man oh Man! I was just telling a friend about Mike just a couple days ago! Miss him amd his smile! Lynn, I hope you the the girls are well! Always love and happiness to your family!
Charlie Horsman
March 21, 2019
Am thinking you would have enjoyed fishing with me on my boat. Out-fishing me actually, and I'm seeing that smile starting to spread on your face before letting it expand into an all out laugh.
steve ramsey
March 14, 2017
dropped by to say hi, time goes by so fast
March 26, 2015
Thank you, Sis, for honoring your brother in this way, thank you so much, love you, Mother
Charlie Horsman
March 26, 2015
Mike did indeed love his daughters. And he did have many good friends, all and any of whom would have helped him, had they been given the opportunity or had the knowledge of the depth of his troubles. Steve Ramsey and Brad Wilson were among that group of close friends, as well as Ross and myself, who would have helped and who think of Mike and his laugh and smile and are grateful of the friendship we had with Mike. I know there are many others. When I think of Mike, I try to quit thinking of what might have been and just focus on his face....his smile, his laugh, and those times I saw him interact with his girls. He is missed.
Tammy
February 16, 2015
Wow Steve I was just thinking of him the last 3 days and telling fun stories of Poker Life. I miss you guys! I truly hope Lynne and the girls are living the Alaskan Dream!
Mother & Harold
Carol Henline
February 15, 2015
Thank you Steve, this made my heart happy. You are so correct is saying he is still very much loved and missed. Mike's Mom
Steve
February 14, 2015
Still in my thoughts, I wish there was more I could have done for you Mike, you were a good friend. You're never gone until all of us that remember you are too, and that is going to be a very long time. I still have some of your files and work items can't seem to throw them away. Take care and cast a line wherever you are. I know you are still missed by many.
Cynthia Zinakova
March 24, 2014
Happy memories...
Cyndi and Mike
Cynthia Zinakova
March 24, 2014
3/24/2014 -
Cynthia Zinakova
Hi, Mike. Thought I'd check in today. You are in my thoughts. I was just wondering - do you know how much you're missed? I think of you often, and I feel your presence sometimes. i'm reminded of you every time I see shimmers on the water, or a sunset over the water (because I know you'd still be fishing and I'd still be waiting for you to finish since we had to clean the fish before I could go to bed!). I think of you every time I see a fisherman, or a large salmon. I think of you every time I see pictures of your beautiful girls - you would be SO proud. I think of you when I think of playing games (foosball, cards, pool, board games, whatever). I can't believe you won't be there to celebrate Chugiak High School's 50th reunion with all our friends! I can't believe you won't be there to send Michaela off to college or help her buy her first car. (Lili too, but we've got a little bit of time). I miss my brother. And with both you and Dad gone, there's such a big hole in my heart. I'm grateful to all my male friends, because they've had to step up and be the brother or father I no longer have. You know, it's all psychological. Illusions. Just like the one you had where you thought you only had one answer. It's just the way life works. Sometimes I think it's too hard when the sky seems gray, but then I get to the other side and there's the sun shining on my face and drying my tears, and I realize I've survived another crisis. And there's often another crisis to be solved. I know you're looking over us all, and I'm glad you are. I appreciate the visits! :) So, little brother, gotta go now. Going to check on Mom. Don't forget how much we love you and miss you every day! See you when I see you!
March 7, 2010
The Stith Family, it will soon be two years since my son, Michael, passed away. I have long gotten past all the questions we ask of ourselves as to the whys of lifes events. We are not meant to understand all the burdens that are placed on us, we can only pray for guidance and understanding, and realize that God does not give us answers as we would like. Michael will forever be loved by his family and friends, and will always be missed. He must be very proud of Lynne for the fantastic job that she is doing in raising their daughters, and letting them know how much their Dad loved them. God bless Lynne and the girls.
March 9, 2009
Michael,
It's been almost a year since you left this earth. I can't believe how quickly time has passed. Please be watchful over your girls Lili & Michaela. They are amazing girls, but they miss you so much. Not a day goes by that my heart doesn't ache for them. I hope you know who much they love you.
Debbie G.
Deanne Adams
April 24, 2008
Dear Carol, Cynthia, Bea, Ray and your families,
Your family has been such a part of our lives since we were kids in McGrath. You know we have you in our hearts every day, wishing for you strength to cope with the loss of Michael. I have not met Lynne or Michaela & Lili, but please let them know so many of us are thinking of them as well. Michael had a wonderful world to grow up in, and we miss him.
With love, Deanne
Mary Ann Johnson
April 24, 2008
Caring Faith Love Sympathy
Sorrow Hope
Thinking of you with much sympathy.
If tears could build a stairway,
and memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to heaven and bring Michael home again.
Carol my heart goes out to you. It's
been seventeen years sence I lost my son.
as the years go by it gets easy but the ache in your heart is for ever.
May God Bless you and your family.
Love Cousin,
Tamara Oleniczak
April 23, 2008
Your son was truely my best
friend. There is now
something missing from our
lives. I am glad I got to
meet you. You raised a
wonderful, caring son. He
helped me like no other, any
time I needed. So as I fish
this summer, I will be
fishing for him, and I.
Thank you so much for
bringing him into this
world. We are all better
people knowing him.
With Love, Tammy
Erin Marie Flack
April 21, 2008
Aunt Lynn, Girls, Grandma, and Grandpa Ray:
I apologize again for not being able to see you in person. I couldn't afford to go to Anchorage, but I was and still am with you in heart and spirit. All my memories and conversations with my uncle bring me nothing but smiles and happy tears. I know I don't keep in touch as much as I'd like, and all I want is to give all of you a hug in person. I love my family with all my heart and I hope to see everyone really soon. I promise to keep in touch more often. I love you guys. **hugs & kisses**
Charlie Horsman
April 21, 2008
Mike was such a good friend, not only to me but to so many people. Losing him in this manner leaves me with such an ache in my heart and unanswerable questions in my mind. But there is no question of who he truely was. He was generous and kind and loving. His smile and laughter will never fade from my memory nor will the knowledge of how much he loved Michaela and Lili and Lynne and the tremendous amount of joy that they gave him.
I am glad that he is no longer struggling with the burden that he so selfishly kept to himself but I so wish he had shared it as he shared the good things in his life because so many people would gladly have helped him carry that burden. I am so blessed that he was a part of my life. I am so thankful for the love and laughter that we shared. And so he shares with me one final thought... "that sometimes the hardest things to share are the most important things to share."
Charlie Horsman
Carol Stith Henline
April 19, 2008
I would like to thank all the wonderful friends and family who took the time to write in the guest book, and to our combined families, with words of encouragement, prayers and kindnesses during our most difficult time. I feel truly blessed to have been his mother, and to have enjoyed some very precious times with him, and to have had him with us for his 50 years. He and Lynne blessed us with two wonderful grand-daughters, and for that we are very grateful to our Heavenly Father, and to the both of them. Michael will be truly missed by all of us and a host of friends. Also, thank you for your generous donations into the Michael Stith Fund, for the benefit of his daughters. Please continue to remember us in your prayers, Carol Stith Henline, Michaels' mother, and also from his dad, Ray Stith.
L. Leon Jenkins Jr.
April 2, 2008
Respectfully, in acknowledgement of the passing of Michael Ray, I do express my deepest sympathy. Often, we allow the Sunrise and the Sunset to over-shadow all the "in between", but not so in this case.
In my younger days, I remember many times of laughter and caring, as we shared, hanging out in ER.
I recall Mike - Always smiling, laughing, joking, always asking me if I was okay. He encouraged me so greatly. I knew he loved his family.
He has left a mark on our hearts ........We will all miss him.
And for this cause, we do not cease to pray for the Family at this time, because it is our desire that through it, all would be strengthened and comforted..... in HIS Might and HIS Power.
I will always remember and never forget Michael Ray Stith, a friend of mine.
To Carol, Ray, Cynthia, Bea & Families .........
Much Love and may God Bless Richly - ljenkins
Roylyn Nielson
April 2, 2008
Lynn & Girls,
I have been in shock with disbelief of the news of Michael. I have been traveling and a friend in Anchorage called me with the news of Mike's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Michael was a special person full of love and light, willing to lend a hand or an ear whenever I needed him. The last time I saw Michael he was at a store with the girls and I was there with my grandson. While the kids played with a stuffed animal, Michael and I caught up on the previous couple of years. He had such admiration and spoke so highly of you Lynn. The love for his girls was so evident as he watched them play before gathering them to find the art supplies they were going home to work with. Before he left he handed me his card and with true sincerity told me to call him if I needed anything. Michael supplied me with carpet & vinyl for many constuction remodels as well as my own homes. He always went above and beyond leaving me feeling lucky to know a professional with his work ethics.
Michael will be so greatly missed. Lynn, Lili and Mikkalla, If you ever need anything, please let me know. I will always think of Michael as an angel from God. I am so saddened by our loss. His mother is right. He really was such a good boy.
Jo Ann Jones
April 2, 2008
Lynn,
I was thinking of you and thought I would try Judy's Internet, this is my very first time on the internet. I am so sorry about Michael, I hope
you can forget the past and have a great future.
Tell the girls That every one here in TN. Really loves you all a lot, we
really liked Michael, a lot, We are so glad we finally got to meet him.
Sorry that I don't write or call you, but you do know that I love you lots.
Aunt Jo Ann Jones
Rod Rhoades
April 1, 2008
Lynne,
I was so stunned and saddened to read of Michael's passing. Though it was years ago, I remember fondly the fishing that Micheal and I did out of Seward for Silvers - we had a blast! This is how I will remember Michael.
Lynne, you have experienced way to much grief in your life. I wish it weren't so.
My prayer is that God's peace and comfort will surround you, your girls and Michael's family...
With Love and Consideration,
The Rhoades
Lisa Tice
March 31, 2008
Lynne, Michaela and Lili,
Bill and I are so saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that you are 'all' in our thoughts and prayers. We are here for you guy's as we always have been. You guy's are so loved by so many people. I know you have the comfort of knowing that. Keep doing what you have done for years. Loving and holding on to each other. Lean on all those friends that God has blessed you with.
All our love,
Lisa & Bill Tice
March 31, 2008
Lynne, Michaela & Lili
Thinking and praying for you and your family. If you need anything don't hesitate to call. We love you all.
Love,
Rodney, Roxanne , Ali and Ashtyn
March 31, 2008
Lynne, Michaela & Lili,
So sorry for you loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers everyday. We love and miss you all.
We Love You,
Mike, Janice & Heather
Amy & Jamie
March 31, 2008
Lynne, Michaela & Lili,
I want you to know, I love you very much & you are in my thoughts and prayers. Give the girls a kiss for me.
I love you all,
Aunt Joann
TONY MISSY TIFFANY AND HOLLY BEASON
March 29, 2008
LYNNE AND GIRLS I KNOW WE DON'T TALK AND WRITE AS MUCH AS WE SHOULD IN OUR BUSY LIVES,BUT KNOW THAT WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU! YOU WILL BE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS! LOVE YOU ALWAYS
JUDY PATTERSON
March 28, 2008
Lynne, Michaela & Lili
I wanted to let you know you and the family are in our prayers .
We enjoyed the christmas that you guys spend in Tennessee and
I think everyone here liked & enjoyed Michael.
We love you.
Aunt Judy & Uncle Stanley
Bj & Colleen Bjornstad
March 28, 2008
Our hearts are broken at the loss of Michael. He was such a kind and loving person to our family and his beautiful smile could light up a room. We will miss him. We consider ourselves blessed to have known him and his beautiful family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all his family.
Kathy Flippen
March 28, 2008
Lynne, Michaela and Lili,
My heart aches for you all. I remember bowling with you and Mike many years ago, Lynne. And then seeing him at Starbright when the girls were in Missy's class and you were working there. He was so proud of those girls and such a good daddy. Mike even put the carpeting in our house and did a great job! He was kind, caring and a little shy, but always smiling. (and what a mischievous smile it was...he always had such a twinkle in his eyes!) We will miss him.
Kathy and Steve
Frankie Hartley- Janke
March 28, 2008
Dear Cindi and Carol~
Words cannot express the depth of this sorrow...your grief and loss are shared by so many. Personally, I feel lucky to have known Michael. My favorite memories of Michael are, of him as a kid growing up in Eagle River. And of course he was Cindi's cute little brother. We had such fun teasing him! He'd get so embarrased. Smile that shy smile~
God bless and keep you close Michael.
I love you Cindi, I love you Carol,
Frankie
Jacky Otto
March 27, 2008
Michaela and Lili are a testament to Michael. Both of you are absolutely remarkable and will keep the light burning, I am sure. I know you will both help your mom in this hard time.
Cynthia Angel
March 27, 2008
Lynne,Michaela and Lili,
You all are in our every thought and prayer. We remember Michael on that wonderful visit that we shared at Christmas. Please know that comfort is a only a prayer away.
I love and miss you all
Your sister and aunt Cynthia Angel,
Abigail , Austin, and Ronnie
gwen oaks
March 27, 2008
Lynne, Just a note to let you know your aunt gwen and uncle Jim, want you to know you and the girls are in our hearts and prayer. Let us hear a note when you can, kiss the girls for us. Love you, gwen and Jim
Tami
March 27, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Scott Stewart
March 27, 2008
I didn't know Mike as an adult but do have lot's of memories from little leauge baseball through the teen age years. I remember once we went to a dance at the then new bartlett high school I was to nervous to ask anyone to dance but Mike wasn't I stood in awe as I watched him doing a brand new dance (the bump) I guess he must have been watching american bandstand or something he had lot's of self confidence. if there's anything I can do that might help contact me via e-mail
Connie Meierhoff Martin
March 27, 2008
Mike's passing fills our family with great sadness - the only peace is knowing that he's with our loving Father, smiling in the sun, fishing pole in hand, laughing his beautiful laugh. Let us stand together and comfort each other; that's what Mike would want. His daughters were precious to him. I will make sure they remember the good, the joy, the fun and the absolute pride their dad had in watching them blossom. I am praying God's loving presence around all of us who will miss him so.
We love you,
Sid, Connie, Amara, and Sydney
Kelly Middendorp
March 27, 2008
My husband and I were neighbors of Mike and his family for serval years in South Anchorage. We will miss him.
cheryl clementson
March 27, 2008
I was very sad to read of Mike's passing. He did several flooring jobs for us & I appreciated his charming personality, honesty, & enthusiasm for everything! I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Clementson
Joyce Cerutti
March 27, 2008
Michael will be greatly missed by our entire staff and crew at Nielson Construction, Inc. He was always such a joy to work with and I personally will never forget his smile and his laughter. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and especially his beautiful daughters.
Kristie & Franco Belk
March 27, 2008
To all of Michael's family,
We extend our deepest sympathy in the passing of your loved one. Though we did not know him personally, it is obvious that he was well-loved. Hold tight to one another and take strength from your family & friends to get you through these difficult days ahead. May you each find comfort in your own special memories.
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