Michael Ray Witherell

Michael Ray Witherell, age 53 of Orem, passed away due to a lingering illness Sunday, July 13, 2008 exactly 32 years after the death of his father, Ray Harvey Witherell, who died July 13, 1976. He was born February 9, 1955 in Payson, Utah to Ray Harvey Witherell and LaRee D. Gottfredson. He married Jennifer Bailey and later divorced. He then married Paula Sunday. They were also divorced.



Mike loved Harley Davidson motorcycles and had one that he treasured. He won his first Harley in a radio contest some years ago by standing for 3 days and 2 nights with his hand on the bike. When he was younger, he enjoyed 4-wheeling and loved hunting and fishing. For a while, he raised prized pheasants in his yard. Mike loved yard work and spent many hours enjoying his large gold fish pond and patio, both of which he built on his own. He especially loved watching and feeding humming birds.



Mike could fix anything and loved a good challenge, never letting it get the best of him. He would ponder a problem for days, research it, and always found a solution. He was a talented sculptor, creating amazing tree trunk sculptures in his yard with a chain saw. Mike was always there to help his family whenever there was need.



He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Paul and LaRee Gottfredson; sister, Lynnette S. Rose; brother, Dennis J. Barney; daughter, Monica Lynn Chappell (husband, Rick); son, Timothy Ray Stewart (wife, Brandi); stepdaughter, Misti Witherell; grandchildren: Nikole, Tyler, Kodi, Dallon and Saphira.



In lieu of flowers, the family would accept contributions that will be used to buy a headstone marker at Provo Cemetery. Donations can be made at any Central Bank Location under the name of Mike Witherell.



There will be a memorial service held Thursday, July 17, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville, Utah.