Michael Kevin Ochs, age 54, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at his home in Lake Stevens, Washington. The family is deeply saddened by his sudden death. Michael, aka Mike, was born on July 4, 1967, in Springfield, Illinois to Michael Henry Ochs and Lenora Kay (Brinson) Brown. His parents share that Mike was a firecracker from day one, and he always made life more interesting (and amusing) for the people around him. Mike grew up in Riverton, Illinois where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. After graduating from Riverton High School in 1985, he studied at DeVry University in Chicago before joining the United States Navy. He served in the Navy from January 2, 1992, to January 1, 2001, achieving the rank of BM2. 

After a decade in the Navy, Mike spent several years repairing appliances and exploring his creative side by carving artistic signs from wood. He was twice married and divorced but found his tribe with his stepdaughter, Strawberry Fields, her partner James Baldwin, and their children Hailey, Jacob, and Olivia Baldwin with whom he lived until he passed. He was an amazing “grandfather” to the three kids, and he was happiest when he was spending time with them. Mike will be fondly remembered for his unique and creatively worded stories, his dry wit, his hilarious sense of humor, his sharp mind, and his kind smile. He touched the hearts of many while he was with us, and we take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace. 

His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his parents and stepparents, Michael Henry Ochs and his wife Mary Ellen of Pawnee, Illinois; Lenora Kay Brown and her husband Dave of Morrisonville, Illinois; his two sisters and their spouses, Marla Kay (Ochs) Rhutasel and her husband Lance of St. Louis, Missouri, and Jessica Lyn (Brown) Armentrout and her husband David of Morrisonville, Illinois; his two nieces, Sabrina Rhutasel and Josie Armentrout; his two nephews, Aiden Rhutasel and Mack Armentrout; his beloved chihuahua, Mort, and the rest of his extended family. 

Inurnment with military honors will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 21, 2022. A celebration of live will be held at the American Legion in Morrisonville, Illinois following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306.