Michael Wayne Care's Obituary
Michael Wayne Care, age 72, passed away on Monday April 6, 2026 at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
He was the oldest of three boys born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Wayne Gideon and Nancy Louise (Orsburn) Care, where he also spent his early years. In his youth, he enjoyed camping, hunting, scouting, road trips, ice skating and playing ice hockey—interests that reflected his love of the outdoors, adventure, and connection with others. The family spent summer vacations living in a tent. On one such camping trip to Medicine Park in Southern Oklahoma they woke to find their tent in the middle of a herd of buffalo! Together with his brothers; Michael, Steve and Kevin had some pretty good brawls but, at the end of the day, they always stood up for each other. They were hard workers too, like their parents' example. They mowed lawns and delivered the morning newspapers for spending money.
Later, Michael moved to Norman, Oklahoma, where he became a dad the first time to daughter Dawn in 1981. He then moved to Austin, Texas, where he became a father the second time to daughter Breanna in 1986. He lived and worked there in Austin and spent many meaningful years building friendships and community. He worked at and enjoyed his career as an HVAC technician working for American Hermetics for 21 years. In time, he returned to Tulsa, where he remained until his passing.
Michael was one of the kindest and most generous people. He had a remarkable ability to put others before himself, often taking better care of those around him than he did of his own needs. His thoughtfulness showed in countless ways.
He was actively involved in Alcoholics Anonymous, where he not only found strength and growth but also became a source of support and friendship to many. Michael loved to drink coffee and friends at his AA group gave him the nickname "Coffee Mike." The connections he built in his BBBSG (Beginner Big Book Study Group) were deep and lasting, and his impact on those individuals will not be forgotten.
He will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and his unforgettable sayings. If you asked how he was doing, he would sometimes say, “finer than frog hair.” And at the end of conversations, he would often leave you with, “be good or get better”—words that will continue to echo in the hearts of those who loved him.
In his final days, he was surrounded by the love of his family and dear friends, including Kris and Harry, who were able to spend meaningful time with him, offering comfort and sharing in moments that will be forever cherished. While his passing leaves a deep sense of loss, there is also peace in knowing he is no longer in discomfort. With faith, there is comfort in believing he has been reunited with his parents and that his loved ones will see him again one day.
He will be dearly missed by his daughters Dawn Goepfert and husband Barry, and Breanna Howeth and husband Jessie; grandchildren Jussi Pera, Guy Goepfert, Emily Goepfert, Tyson Goepfert, and Jacob Goepfert; brothers Steven Care and wife Jan, and Kevin Care and wife Gina; nieces and nephews and a host of friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Wayne and Nancy Care. His final resting place will be on the Red River because he spent his entire life between Texas and Oklahoma.
Please feel free to join us for a celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 27th, 2026, 10:30am at Fellowship Congregational Church, 2900 S Harvard Ave, Tulsa, OK 74114.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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