James Michael "Mike" Park's Obituary
James Michael Park, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor passed away peacefully at home on May 10th surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 11, 1952, in Tulsa, Oklahoma to James W. and Marie Park, Mike lived life on his own terms with an unwavering devotion to family. He was the consummate Family Man, his life was a testament to love, generosity, sportsmanship, and the constant search for knowledge, leaving a lasting mark on all who had the privilege to know him.
By chance at a party, in the fall of 1969, Mike met the love of his life Carol Crockett. They were married on June 25, 1971, and would have celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary this summer. Into this marriage they welcomed two beloved children, Jeffery Michael, and Jamie Michelle. Later, this family became complete when Jeff married Jenny and Mike’s grandchildren Brooklyn and Jesse were born.
In 1975 Mike and his brother-in-law, Gary Fetterhoff, purchased a small company with 5 employees and turned it into the largest crating company in Oklahoma now employing 75. Today American Crating Company is still a family-owned business which continues to thrive under the leadership of Mike’s son, Jeff Park.
Throughout his life, baseball played an important role, first as a boy playing Peewee baseball in Tulsa and later as a player, mentor, and coach. The Tulsa Mavericks, coached by Mike, won the 1989 Dizzy Dean National Championship held in New Orleans. Mike was Commissioner of the Bear Baseball Program in Tulsa from 1988 to 1992 where he continued to influence young lives. Mike’s love of sports encompassed horseracing, golfing, fishing, and any sport his grandchildren may be playing. As a golfer, he achieved three holes in one at local country clubs.
Mike’s father introduced him to fishing in Canada when he was a child. He continued to fish in Canada throughout his life often inviting family and friends to join him. If you were lucky enough to join Mike on one of those trips to Cat Island Lodge, you left with cherished memories of magical shore lunches and unbelievable fish stories. Mike is somewhat of a legend around Trout Lake, with a landmark now referred to as Park’s Point.
Mike was known among his friends and family as a gifted raconteur who could hold an audience spellbound with tales of his youthful exploits. He could often be found holding court at gatherings with colorful tales, it was always a race to see who could sit by Mike at any event.
Mike was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jamie Michelle “JP” on April 15, 2024. He will be deeply missed by wife Carol, son Jeff (Jenny), loving grandchildren Brooklyn and Jesse, beloved sisters Marsha Chisum (Michael) and Pam Rhea, many nieces, nephews, and so many others who had the privilege of knowing him.
In his final journey, Mike leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to family that will continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps.
A memorial service to honor the life of Mike will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Floral Haven's Rose Chapel, located at 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012, with Hobie Higgins officiating.
Mike's service will be livestreamed for anyone unable to physically attend: https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/100862
Anyone wishing to send flowers may do so by ordering through our website or by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Any independent florists may deliver flowers directly to Floral Haven Funeral Home by 12:00 PM on Monday, May 20, 2024, in order for them to be set out and properly displayed for Mike's services.
A reception will be held once the memorial service concludes from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Floral Haven’s Family Center. Mike's family would like to warmly extend an invitation to anyone wishing to attend the reception in order to continue in fellowship and sharing of memories. The Floral Haven Family Center is also located at Floral Havel Funeral Home, 6420 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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