Michael John Morgan, 68, of Newport, Oregon passed away on March 26, 2022 after his fishing vessel, the White Swan III, capsized in the Pacific Ocean. Mike was born in Oakland, California in 1953 to US Coast Guard Lt. Col. Jack Morgan and Beth (both deceased). He would become the oldest of three siblings, followed by Douglas (deceased) and Patricia. At age 12, Mike's family moved to Newport, when his father was stationed with the Yaquina Bay Coast Guard.

Twelve year old Mike took to fishing immediately upon moving to Newport. His first job was cleaning fish on charter docks. As a teen, he worked as a deckhand on the charter boat, Hoot Owl. At 17, he purchased his first boat, a 21' dory, named Mothers Worry, that he fished after charter trips; often being the last boat back in the harbor. He received his first Ocean Operator License at 18 years old and his Big Ticket at 21 when he became captain of the White Swan III, which he purchased two years later.

In 1981, Mike advanced his career to be an owner/operator of Sea Gull Charters on the bayfront. He also owned the charter vessel Colonel that ran through Sea Gull Charters. Years later, he sold the business and focused as an independent commercial fisherman often selling fish direct to the public from the stern of the White Swan III. Mike also was a steelhead guide for many years on the Siletz, Alsea, and Yaquina Rivers. He enjoyed talking to customers and helping them with becoming familiar with various fish. Mike masterfully captained the White Swan III for over 50 years fishing for the best quality salmon, tuna, and halibut the central coast had to offer. His few days on dry land were spent checking the weather and prepping to cross the bar back out into his playground. His love of the sea, his boat and fishing were high on his list of accomplishments.

Mike is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Griffith and stepson, Jonathan of Newport. His children were his pride and joy. Mike's son, Robert, is a high school science teacher in Portland and his daughter, Liz, is also an educator in Phoenix, Arizona. And much to his joy, Mike was also a grandfather to Miles.

Mike's final resting place is at sea with his White Swan III. A memorial service will be held April 1st at 1:00 PM at the Fisherman's Memorial Sanctuary located in Yaquina Bay State Park.

The family is purchasing a bench to memorialize Mike in Newport, Oregon.  If you would like to donate, please visit: https://gofund.me/bff6fef1 

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