Michael Leon Flake

Michael Leon Flake was born smack dab in the middle of Dean and
Nerita's family of eleven children on June 4, 1965. This may be one reason
for what would become his remarkably peaceful nature.
Childhood years on the F-Bar ranch in Snowflake were ideal for an active
boy who loved the natural world. Surrounded by brothers and a minority of
sisters, he learned to work hard alongside his Dad, whom he revered.
There was also time for fun, riding horses and three-wheelers, playing kick
the can with a passel of cousins, swimming in the freezing well water of
Far Tank, shooting guns and hunting arrowheads. Mikey became
legendary in family lore for sitting down on a red ant hill as a toddler and
surviving dozens of bites. Another day while exploring a small mound in
back of the big red barn he saw a few strays and tore frantically into the
house breathlessly sounding the alarm, "Bad dogs on Lizard Hill!" A
natural athlete, Mike ran track as well as playing with lifelong friends on
Lobo baseball, basketball and football teams that all won State
championships.
Mike always had a deep and abiding love of Jesus Christ and His gospel.
It filled him with faith and hope that he carried throughout his life. A secret
wish came true as he served in the South African Mission, combining
adventure with sharing his religious convictions during two marvelous
years. He spoke often and with great affection about those he served with
and taught.
Playing football in Rexburg, Idaho brought him a more valuable benefit
than free tuition. Falling in love with his beautiful blonde, blue-eyed Sozelle
began their eternal partnership. A marriage that was both dynamic and
tender, they each combined talents that blessed their family.Their children
Brayden (Alyssa), Caitlin (Dallin), Morgann (Landon) and Shannan (Porter)
would come along over the years, fulfilling their dream of being parents
and bringing them their greatest joys.
Living in Tucson meant Mike's family could spend a lot of time outdoors.
He bought an old boat which he kept running so they could enjoy the
water as only desert dwellers can. They explored Sabino Canyon and
hiked miles of trails. Sharing cookouts with friends made many sweet
memories.
Dreaming of flying since he was a boy, Mike became a full-time Reservist
in the Air Force as a flight engineer on Pavehawk helicopters. He would
eventually log an astounding 7,600+ hours and serve 15 deployments,
several in Afghanistan. Known as a legend in the rescue community, he
found great satisfaction in saving lives and bringing loved ones home. With
the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, Mike embodied the role of patriot.
Fellow servicemen and women, church associates, friends and family all
describe him with similar attributes like; compassion, unselfishness,
humor, integrity, gentleness and just plain goodness.
In the past decade Mike became Pop Pop to eight beautiful and engaging
grandchildren. They clamored to FaceTime, fish, hike, climb all over him
and hear his stories. All of them in turn wore a tiny flight suit that Sozelle
created, posing with handsome Pop Pop wearing his.
Mike's family has lots of practice with both tearful goodbyes and joyous
reunions, but the diagnosis of ALS just five short months ago brought
them all to their knees. Since then they have used every precious day to
spend time together and express love. In typical fashion, without
dramatics Mike slipped away after celebrating his 38th Anniversary with
Sozelle.
In a coming day Mike will be there standing tall and waiting for us, blue
eyes shining. His strong arms will reach out, gathering each one in his big
warm hug. It will be a homecoming with no more goodbyes