Michael Trautman

SARASOTA, Fla. - Dr. Michael "Mike" Trautman, beloved husband, brother, friend and dentist, passed away March 19, 2025, in Sarasota, Fla., at age 74, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mike was born in 1950 in Urbana to F. Lewis and Chloe (Reichard) Stephens. He was fortunate to have spent time with his father, Lew, and grandmother, Mary Stephens; also, with Bud and Bea Reichard, his maternal grandparents. They provided warmth and creativity that left a lasting impression on his life. Chloe remarried; her husband J.M. "Mike" Trautman later adopted Michael.

As a child of the 1960s, Mike embodied the era's spirit of change with curiosity, independence and thoughtfulness. As a teenager, he spent countless hours building intricate model kits, revealing an early talent for precision and design that would later define his success in dentistry. Mike came of age during turbulent times, balancing youthful rebellion with wisdom, compassion and intelligence, as the Vietnam War and cultural shifts reshaped the world around him.

Mike attended the University of Illinois, where hospitalization became a pivotal chapter in his life. He met Nancy Tarsitano, his nurse, who became his first wife. The couple married and he joined the U.S. Air Force. They moved to March Air Force Base in California, where Mike served as a dental lab technician. His time in California was filled with many adventures, including sailing.

The marriage ended and Mike returned to Champaign to complete his undergraduate degree, where life led him toward a new chapter - and a lasting love. Mike met Jolie Nichols, who would become his partner in both life and work. They married in 1977 and pursued a shared passion and talent for dentistry. Mike graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine and Jolie from dental hygiene school. In 1979, they purchased a dental practice in Champaign and poured their hearts into caring for their patients and community. Mike's gentle demeanor, artistic skills and quiet confidence made him a respected and trusted dentist for nearly four decades. He frequently smiled and hummed as he worked.

Mike's interests extended beyond the dental chair. He was an avid sailor, windsurfer, HAM radio operator, and later, a skilled builder and pilot of radio-controlled airplanes.

In 2005, he lovingly restored his 28-foot sailboat, the Island Princess, which became a cherished part of his life. He and his many friends made several journeys along the Florida coast, collecting stories, laughter and developing lifelong friendships. Mike also enjoyed traveling, visiting the Virgin Islands, Hawaii, the Holy Land, Switzerland, France, Italy and China.

Even after being diagnosed with aggressive cancer, in November 2023, he met each day with bravery, humor and unwavering realism. In those final months, many friends and family from across the country came to visit. It was a time Mike and Jolie deepened their love and connection with lifelong friends and family.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Jolie (Nichols) Trautman; five siblings, Charles, David, Michelle, Phillip and Babette (Rick) Paige; plus his beloved sisters-in-law, Jaye Nichols and Kim Stephenson; also a niece and four nephews.

He was a pillar of strength, kindness and warmth; his absence leaves a space that cannot be filled. Mike will be remembered for his acceptance, friendliness and gentle spirit. He was admired, loved and will remain in our hearts, always.

A service was held in Sarasota in April. His informal Champaign memorial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at the Champaign County Radio Controlled Club model airplane field, 3616 W. Bloomington Road, Champaign. Please bring an umbrella and chair, rain or shine.

Condolences may be offered at dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/sarasota-fl/michael-trautman-12291842.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CCRCC, P.O. Box 6105, Champaign, IL 61826-6105, or via PayPal to boc3616@hotmail.com or to an organization of the donor's choice.