Michael "Mike" MEAKIN

Beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, uncle and friend, Mike peacefully entered into rest on September 2, 2025, at the age of 92 in Spokane Valley, Washington.

Mike was born on June 7, 1933, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, to Olwen Ruth Meakin. As a young boy of five, Mike showcased his musical talents as a soloist for the Edmonton Symphony. During his teenage years, Mike treasured time with his best friends, Pete and Steve, playing hockey in the winter and baseball in the summer.

Mike first met his beloved wife, Shirley, while both were employed with the Province of Alberta. They began their life's adventure together as husband on November 8, 1952. In 1956, they courageously moved to the United States, where they founded Abacus Office Machines. For over 60 years, they poured their hearts and souls into the business, eventually passing their passion and success on to their children. Mike's love for office machines extended beyond business - he was an avid collector of typewriters, finding joy in the craftsmanship and history of each unique machine.

Mike's greatest joys centered on his family, he was deeply involved in his children's lives - from Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to snowmobiling adventures with his sons, bowling, and building ice rinks in the backyard. One memorable scouting adventure involved fighting off a bear with his shoes while standing on a large rock during his quest for the Order of the Arrow (during which he couldn't speak for 24 hours). Mike was, and always will be, his children's hero.

In recent years, Mike especially cherished his numerous friendships formed during his daily walks at the Spokane Valley Mall, where he had his own special spot at the table. It was there that Mike met his dear friend, Kristie, and he soon became part of her family as they became part of his.

At the age of 79, Mike proudly fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming an American citizen, having always felt like one at heart.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Olwen; wife, Shirley; daughter, Brenda Skranak; and stepfather, Cliff Fisher.

He is survived by his children, Dean (Karlene), Terrie (Rob), Dave (Lori), and Trudy (Tom); numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

We invite friends and relatives to a closed casket memorial at the gravesite in Pines Cemetery on 16th and Pines, on Friday, September 12, at 10:30. Followed by a "Celebration of Life lunch" at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, at 3598 N. Harvard, Otis Orchards.

Flowers may be sent to the Pines Cemetery, 1402 S. Pines, 99216, or in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to "Spokane Winter Knights," 816 W. Francis Ave., #281, Spokane, WA 99205.

Mike's legacy of love, determination, and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.