Michael Millard Spence, 54, of Oracle, Ariz., passed away at home Dec. 9. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Luella.

He is survived by his aunt, Betty Holnback, of Tucson; and cousin, Sharon Holnback, of Oracle; many friends, loved ones and his faithful dog, Amy.

Michael was born in Downey, Calif., July 12, 1955, moved to Whittier, Calif., and then to Gridley, Calif., for one year with his parents at the age of 10. They lived on his uncle’s ranch, which fostered his lifelong passion for the outdoors. He moved back to Whittier, where he graduated from high school. He entered the U.S. Navy Seabees in 1977, and was stationed in Port Hueneme, Calif., Japan, the Indian Ocean and Greece. After his discharge, he lived at Havasu Lake, Calif. where he touched many lives.

He was Fire Chief of San Bernadino County and operated his own welding business. Mike’s home since 2004 was his cousin’s ranch, the Triangle L Ranch in Oracle, where he was foreman. He also taught welding at CAC Aravaipa College. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and cowboy. Mike was a tough and true character with a big heart and unique sense of humor. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for family, friends and strangers.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Oracle Fire Dept., PO Box 977, Oracle, AZ 85623, or the charity of your choice. A memorial service and celebration of Mike’s life will be held at the Triangle L Ranch, Saturday, beginning at 4 p.m. Details at Triangle L Ranch.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Desert Sunset Catalina 818-0038.