Edgar A. Carmichael

Obituary

It is with deep love and gratitude that we remember the life of Edgar Alexander "Mick" Carmichael, who passed away peacefully at home on Friday, January 16th, at the age of 90, with his wife of seventy years, Marva Nelean Phillips at his side.

Born on December 7, 1935, in Wenatchee, Washington, Mick was the younger child of Alexander "Eddie" Carmichael and Mabel Ruth Symons (Halstead). He was predeceased by his beloved sister, Nola Anita Carmichael (Torgeson), in 2019. From an early age, Mick was known for his resilience and kindness. He worked multiple jobs to support his independence and his love of beautiful cars, leaving a legacy of hard work that lives on in the hearts of his family and friends.

After graduating from Wenatchee High School, Mick met Marva in a serendipitous encounter after witnessing an auto accident involving Marva. Their connection blossomed, and they were married on October 15, 1955, at Marva's parents' home in Cashmere, Washington. Together, they built a loving family, raising six children:

Brenda (Karl Kaufmann) of Felida, Washington

Greg Carmichael (Grace Evelyn Williams) of Federal Way, Washington

Laura (David Cobbley) of Gaston, Oregon

Danielle (Brian Rule) of Brush Prairie, Washington

Nelean (Jeff Warndahl, deceased) formerly of Woodland, Washington, now of Guthrie, Oklahoma

Alexander Carmichael (Jen Case) of Vancouver, Washington

Mick is survived by his sisters, Marianne and Connie Carmichael of Washington state, twenty-one grandchildren and their spouses, and twenty-nine great-grandchildren.

Family and Faith

Mick's unwavering dedication to his family was the cornerstone of his life. He was a caring and supportive father, whose wisdom, intellect, and experience guided his large family. Whether reading Dr. Seuss bedtime stories, volunteering with the PTA, coaching little league, or cheering from the sidelines, Mick was always present for his children's milestones. His love of God was evident in his support for his children's involvement in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mick contributed to his church community in many ways, from singing in the choir and fundraising to setting up chairs and designing banks for the Primary Children's Hospital penny drive. He was generous with his time, talents, and resources, and was present at every important moment in his children's lives, imparting both guidance and a sense of security and belonging. In their later years, Mick and Marva served as Service Missionaries for their church.

Passion for Learning and Joy

Mick was passionate about lifelong learning and instilled in his children a strong sense of identity and curiosity. He encouraged a love of books, family game nights, and exploration of the world. Together with Marva, he worked tirelessly to ensure their children had every opportunity to pursue happiness and their dreams. Their home was a lively hub of activity, warmth, and laughter, filled with Mick's wordplay and "Dad jokes."

The walls of their home will forever echo with his love and understanding.

Career and Community

After high school, Mick began his career with Zellerbach Paper, rising from delivery to sales and then to management in Seattle. In 1976, he became an entrepreneur, founding his own packaging film and shrink wrap sales business. This new venture led the family to Vancouver, Washington, near Portland, Oregon. Mick's foresight led him to purchase a home on the east end of Vancouver, anticipating the area's growth. It was in this home that Mick welcomed his youngest child, Alexander, the red apple of his eye.

His love, energy and involvement in Alex's life will forever be a monument to his devoted parenting.

Celebration of Life

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mick's life at 12:00 pm on Friday, January 23rd, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Cascade Park chapel, 13600 SE McGillivray Blvd, Vancouver, Washington. Evergreen Mortuary and Funeral Home will be directing the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the charity of your choice.