Michael's obituary
It is in faith and loving memories that we announce the passing of Michael "Mike" Elton, who entered eternity with Jesus Christ in Tempe, Arizona, at the age of 60. Michael’s vibrant and larger than life spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Michael is survived by his mother, Phyllis Elton; his siblings, Dustin Elton and Natalie Elton; his sister-in-law, Christine Elton; his nephew and niece, Jaron Elton and Nova Elton; and his former sister-in-law, Jennifer Elton. He was predeceased by his father, Lyle Elton, whom he missed dearly.
Michael Elton was born in Sisseton, South Dakota, and was a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate. Michael was well-rounded, intelligent, curious, and a man with many interests. Mike was an avid sports enthusiast, a fervent supporter of the Arizona Cardinals, the Arizona Suns, Arizona State University and a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees. A man in love with the outdoors, he cherished camping and road trips, long or short. Michael also had a deep appreciation for the beauty in this world, with Hawaii and the Bahamas being his favorite vacation destinations.
Mike loved growing up in the unique beauty of Lake Powell and attending Page High School. He worked at the Wahweap Lodge and Marina during the summer and had so many friends in Page. Michael attended Arizona State University and was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Mike had a special fondness for the Pacific Ocean and a favorite time in his life was living in Huntington Beach, California. Michael was loved in the customer service industry and at times was called upon to chauffeur many of the well-known visitors in the Valley. He always had a great eye and talent for interior design. However, buying and selling antiques and collectibles was his career for many years and was great at it.
His compassion extended to all creatures, even caring for and nursing back-to-health stray kittens. Michael was always caring for the less fortunate among us, especially the homeless.
Described by his friends and family as funny, compassionate, outgoing, friendly, and never one to shy away from a challenge, Michael’s lessons have left a valuable mark on their lives. He believed that 'the toughest battles were for the strongest warriors,’ a philosophy that guided him through hard times. These were not just words for Michael as he lived by this mantra, earning the honor of an Eagle Scout and achieving All-State in football, basketball, baseball, and track.
Through his acts of kindness and generosity, memorable time with friends and family, adventurous spirit, his love for animals, and his assistance to those in need, Michael's legacy will always hold a special place in our hearts. He recently rededicated his life to Jesus Christ as his Savior. His memory will live on, not only in our hearts and minds, but also in the reality that those who have received Jesus Christ as the atoning sacrifice for our sins will see Michael again!
We invite all who knew and loved Michael to remember his vivacious spirit, his warm heart, and the eternal life he will enjoy as a man saved by the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
A memorial will be set for a future date and time to allow for travel to Page, Arizona.
John 14:1, “Let not your heart be troubled…” I Thessalonians 4:14-18, “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus, will God bring with Him. For this we say unto you by the Word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord, Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ, Michael Elton, shall rise first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so, shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words” Ps. 116:15 reminds us how God feels about death,” Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.”