Michael Harvey Phelps

Michael Phelps Obituary

Michael Harvey Phelps "Be a Doer!" Michael Harvey Phelps, age 42, passed away at home in the early morning hours of March 1, 2003, with his loving wife close by his side. Although cancer took his life, he faced this challenge with courage and hope and never lost the positive outlook that so characterized his life. Michael was born on December 4, 1960 in Garberville, California to David N. and Tamara Jensen Phelps. He married Aliete Perez for all eternity on August 15, 1987 in the Oakland LDS Temple. Aliete rarely left his side during the long months of his illness and cared for him with unselfish love and tenderness as she attended to his every need. They have been blessed with four wonderful children: Dustin Perez Phelps, Kelsey Ann Perez Phelps, Spencer Perez Phelps and Michael Harvey Phelps, Jr. Michael was a wonderful father and nothing made him happier than being with his family. Together they enjoyed many vacations, especially to the beaches of San Diego. He loved the solitude of Antelope Island. Their most precious moments together, however, were spent as a family within the walls of their home during family home evenings and scripture study. His wife and children love and admire him very much and know he will always be a part of their lives. He was a faithful and very active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in the Texas Dallas Mission and in a variety of later callings. He especially loved serving with the youth and was instrumental in encouraging the majority of "his" young men to serve missions. Michael lived his life the same way he ran a marathon - with enthusiasm, determination and a desire to succeed. He will be remembered for the example he was in every aspect of his life. He was never a quitter and had a winning spirit. He inspired many, especially his own family. Michael is survived by his wife and children of Kaysville; his angel mother, Tamara Phelps of Fruit Heights; one sister, Karen (Steve) Bastow, Liberty; three brothers, David (Mary) Phelps; Daniel (Cindy) Phelps; and Barry Phelps, all of Fruit Heights; along with many loving nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his father and by his sister, Debra Lynne Phipps, who died only nine hours before Michael. The family wishes to thank all those who have expressed their love and concern in so many compassionate ways. Friends and relatives may call at Lindquist's Layton Mortuary, 1867 North Fairfield Road, Layton, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2003. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2003 at 11 a.m. at the Kaysville Fairfield Ward, 1085 North 50 East, Kaysville. There will be a viewing at the church from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the services. Interment, Kaysville City Cemetery, 500 East Crestwood Road, Kaysville, Utah. E-mail condolences to the family at [email protected]

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Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Mar. 4 to Mar. 5, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Phelps

8 Entries

Eric Edvalson

September 17, 2017

Aliete I was in your ward in Citrus Heights and remember both of you so fondly. I remember Michael's smile which brightened up any room he entered. I pray that the Lord will always watch out for you and your family until you are reunited with Michael for all eternity.

Renske Crittenden

March 7, 2003

Dustin,

I am saddened at the passing of your father. I consider myself very blessed to have had you in my class and to get to know your dad. He was such a great father and a great person. He was one of the few parents who would joke back with me. I remember him coming to bring lunch money to you. I told him thanks for buying MY lunch! You laughed, he smiled, and reached into his pocket to get more money! Then he said, "Sorry Dustin, guess you'll have to go hungry today, unless you can get Mrs. Crittenden to share her lunch with you! We all laughed. (Of course I didn't keep the money!) He was always so positive when he came to our class. He was a great father and delighted in your successes. I am blessed to count you and your family as my friends. You are a wonderful young man Dustin. Your Dad loves you very much. His influence, teachings, and support will always be there to guide your life in a positive direction. He is just helping you from another room.

Love you Kiddo-

Mrs. Crittenden

Gloria Wright

March 5, 2003

Dear Tamara,

I saw of the passing of two of your

beautiful children (Debbie and Michael). I am so sorry and wanted to let you know that my love and prayers are with you. What a wonderful family you have. I also noticed that Dave had passed away. Jim died in March 1996. Your family was always special to us.

Love,

Gloria Wright

Julie

March 5, 2003

So very sorry for your loss. Mike was a big part of many lives during our high school years. He was a good friend and confidant. We will miss him....Best wishes to your family.

Jon and Shauna Fish

March 5, 2003

I doubt that you will remember me, but we remember you and yours. We were so very, very sad to hear of Mike's passing.

My father died when I was 8-years old and he was 33. A day has not gone by in nearly 50 years that I have not thought about him and thanked heaven I was allowed to be born of he and Mother. Your children will surely know those same feelings as time goes by.

Thank you for making a difference in our lives. Love to all within your circle.

Heidi Wilcox

March 4, 2003

Hi Phelps family,

I am so sorry to hear about Michael's and Debbie's passing. That is so sad. I grew up in the same ward as the Phelps, they were a great family and were good friends! I feel very sad for your family having to go through this. I know the Lord will be there to bless and comfort you. You need all the comfort you can get at this time. I know you have lots of support with your family and friends. I'll pray for you.

Heidi Dean Wilcox

Suzi Evans- Brewster

March 4, 2003

Aliete!!! Remember me from the Citrus Heights Singles Ward? I have been thinking about you and Mike for years and tried searching everywhere for you. Obviously I didn't search quite as hard as the Spirit was telling me. My daughter was even on one of Mike's cousin's Jr. Jazz teams last year and I never followed up. Shame on ME!!

I am so sorry I can't tell MIke how much I thought of him. He was always so positive and warm and loved LIFE. I am so saddened by his passing. You are a very special woman and I remembered how mush faith you had in Heavenly Father's plan.

Please email me or call me anytime. I have tried to let all the old Citrus Heights 6th Ward members know, atleast the ones I keep in touch with. [email protected] or 801-964-8184.

I am going to try to come to the viewing on Friday, but if I don't I will try to get intouch with you.

I can just hear Mike say "Aliete is my little Brazilian Nut". He loved you so much when he married you and I'm sure that love has deepened.

Love, Suzi

Karen Sturzenegger RN

March 4, 2003

Dear Alieta and Family,

I want to express my deepest sympathy for your overwhelming loses. You have lost 2 wonderful and spectacular people in your family and my heart goes out to you in your suffering. I pray you receive comfort from your loses that you might be able to embrace a life of happiness once again.

Michael was an incredible fighter, I was so impressed with is stamina and desire to fight, his ability to stay positive and optomistic, I enjoyed the brief times I spoke with him. Michael and I talked to arrange treatment at the University of Utah and for out of state. He was always kind, patient and appreciative and I have really grown to respect his strong and positive spirit. And once again feel humbled by such fantastic patients as Michael and thank you for the opportunity to talk with this great man.

Alieta if I can help you anything please let me know,

Your friend

Karen Sturzenegger RN CM IHC Health Plans

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