Page created by: Barbara Butrick

Mike was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2007 and Lewy Body Dementia in 2019 which was a direct result of the Parkinson's Disease. Fortunately Mike received his diagnosis in the very early stages of the disease. He was able to continue working as a heavy equipment mechanic for a period of time. Mike was able to do the actives of daily life and things he really enjoyed for several years. He refused to give in to the symptoms which develop over time when you have this disease and when he couldn't do certain things because his hands and involuntary movements caused by both Parkinson's and the meds he took to help control the disease he would tell his wife Barbara, how to do it and together they would get it done. When his dyskinesia movements, which were medication related, become almost debilitating he underwent deep brain stimulation surgery in August of 2022. That helped more than we could have hoped for. Unfortunately during the last year of his life he was unable to remain at home under the watchful eye of his wife Barbara. He lost his battle on December 30, 2023 at the age of 82.
This page is being set up to allow family and friends to donate to help find a cure for this horrible disease. It not only affects the body but the mind as well and we know Mike would want everything done possible to help others fight and be cured of this horrible disease.

Mike was born in Muskegon, MI on October 10, 1941. Mike came to Riverside, CA when he was 16 and resided there until he and his wife purchased a home in 1995 which was located in Moreno Valley, CA where his wife still resides. Mike attended and graduated from Poly High School in Riverside and did a short attendance at RCC. Mike was drafted into the Army in Jan, 1964 and received a medical discharge while in boot camp due to a knee injury resulting in knee surgery.
Mike was involved in anything having to do with cars. He was one of the best mechanics you could ever hope to find. He loved off road racing. He drove and was a co-driver in numerous Baja Off Road Events as well as being an intricate part of the chase teams. He also participated in off road events in Arizona and Southern California. As a younger man he was also involved in racing motorcycles which he dearly loved. He loved Nascar Racing and was acquainted with several of the drivers as well as Indy Car Races and their drivers. Mike was a original member of the Rickshaw Car Club in Riverside, CA which was originated in 1960 and is still active today.
Mike and his wife Barbara also square danced for several years with the Western Stars Square Dance Club in Riverside, CA which he really enjoyed. He always told people when they complimented him on his dancing "If you can walk, you can square dance".

Mike was a very loving, kind and gentle man. He never had a bad thing to say about anyone and could always find something good in everyone. Michael, we will miss your infectious smile and loving ways. We love you very much and miss you even more.