Walking On -- Michael Leonard Rife

Michael Leonard Rife

Nov. 16, 1951 – Feb. 21, 2024

Tribal Elder Michael Leonard Rife of Pleasant Hill, Oregon, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2024, at the age of 72.

He was born in Mapleton, Oregon, to William and Betty (Carpenter) Rife. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 1969 and served a total of six years in the military.

In 1970, he met Katherine June Rose. They were married on Dec. 18, 1970, and spent 52 wonderful years together in which they had two sons, William and Joshua Rife.

Michael was a devoted family man who put his wife and children first. He was also a loving grandfather. Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing and loved the outdoors. His other passion was woodworking. He was a natural handyman who fixed everything.

He is survived by his wife, Katherine; sons, William and Joshua; daughter-in-law, Amy Rife; and grandchildren, Isaac, Allison, Kaleb and Madeline.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at the Tribal cemetery.

West Valley Funeral Home in Sheridan is assisting the family.