Michael Sturman, 62, passed away August 13, 2015 in Tacoma, WA.
Michael was born April 13, 1953 in San Diego, CA to William and Betty (Butler) Sturman. He was the second of three children. After graduating from high school in Virginia, he found his way to Western Washington, his lifelong home. In 1975, he married Cynthia Dickson and together they had two daughters, Jessica and Angela.
Early in his career, Michael pursued commercial diving in Alaska and Washington. Following the birth of his first daughter, he found work more locally at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, although diving remained a passion. After many years at the Shipyard, he decided to complete his degree at the University of Washington, obtaining his BS in Environmental Science. Mike then went to work for the WA State Labor and Industry as an inspector. For the last several years he worked as a Hearings Officer for the same department. He was also a veteran of the US Army, stationed at Fort Lewis, WA.
Mike was a big man, with a big heart and a gruff exterior, but was a teddy bear when it came to his family. Mike married the love of his life, Lynne, in July 2008 in Wasilla, Alaska. They traveled Alaska in a motor home for a week after the wedding and it was a fabulous adventure for both. He enjoyed traveling, anything to do with the water and was an avid reader – traits he passed on to his daughters. One trip he particularly enjoyed was a tour of the South Island of New Zealand with his daughter Angela.
Mike leaves behind his wife Lynne of Tacoma, daughter Jessica Sturman of New York City, daughter Angela Fillmore of Tacoma, and step-sons Shane Moberly and Doug Williams of Alaska. He was predeceased by his mother, Betty Sturman. He is also survived by his dad Captain (Ret.) William Sturman, sister Becky Payne, brother John Sturman, niece Melody Culver and nephew Mason Payne.
At Mike’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Memorial contributions can be made to the Marine Conservation Institute or American Cancer Society in his name.

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