Dr. Michael W. Gehlen

Dr. Michael W. Gehlen
April 2, 1944 - Feb. 16, 2020
Dr. Michael W. Gehlen was born in Portland, April 2, 1944 to William Gehlen and Heidi Gehlen who preceded him in death. He passed away at the age of 75, Feb. 16, 2020.
Mike graduated from Serra Catholic High School in Salem, Ore., in 1962. He attended the University of San Francisco for Pre-Med and Art studies. He continued his education at Oregon Health Sciences University receiving his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 1969. Upon his graduation from OHSU he relocated to the city of New Orleans to work for the Public Health Service. After a year he moved back to the Pacific Northwest to teach dentistry at the University of Washington in Seattle for two years. He returned to his home state of Oregon to teach at OHSU and eventually started his own practice. He was the first established dentist in Tualatin where he practiced dentistry for 50 years. He was admired by his loyal patients and highly respected by his colleagues.
Mike enjoyed all things outdoors including working in his yard, hiking and golf. He played club soccer for several years locally and he traveled for games in San Diego. He spent many summers in Hood River and the Columbia Gorge where he enjoyed wind surfing. Later in life he had a passion for sailing with Linda and friends around the British Virgin Islands.
In retirement, Mike and Linda enjoyed their second home in Eagle Crest in Central Oregon.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Gehlen; son, Derek Gehlen; and daughter, Alison Gehlen. Mike also had stepchildren, daughter, Angela Davis who preceded him in death; and three sons, Chris Hesedahl, Ryan Jones (Kristin) and Troy Jones (Gaea). He also had 11 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings, Margo Watman, Joseph Gehlen, Bill Gehlen, Mary May, Kris Butters and Patrick Gehlen who preceded him in death.
A celebration of Life will be held 2 p.m., April 5, 2020, at The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Course.
In lieu of flowers, donations my be made to the Knight Cancer Institute at OHSU.
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits