Michael Reed Leavitt was born on November 11,
1951, in Medford, Oregon, to Bob and Doris Leavitt. In 1954, the Leavitt family
relocated to Crescent City, California. Michael’s childhood was rooted in this
close-knit community, where he attended local elementary schools and later
graduated from Del Norte High School in 1969.
After high school, Michael pursued his
education at College of the Siskiyous. During his time there, he played
football and was actively involved with the events committee. While at home in
Crescent City, Michael worked at Eureka Fisheries, Bob Mathew Motors, and for
the Forest Service. He was also an active member of the Foursquare Church,
demonstrating his commitment to his community and faith.
In 1975, Michael married Vicky Diane Stuck.
Together, they built a life rooted in love and family. Michael began his career
in cheese making in 1973 at Rumiano’s in Crescent City, where he worked until
1979. That year, Michael and Vicky, along with their two young boys, moved to
western Montana. There, Michael worked at the Hamilton Creamery and formed many
close friendships. After the creamery closed, the Leavitt family returned to
Crescent City in 1986. Michael worked in the cheese industry for several years
before transitioning to cabinet making, a craft in which he found great
satisfaction. He later took a position with the Del Norte County Sheriff’s
Department as a Booking Clerk. He then moved into the Civil Clerk office where
he stayed until his retirement in 2016.
Throughout his days, Michael was often
accompanied by his beloved black Lab, Meatball, who was his faithful companion.
Michael was preceded in death by his
father Robert R Leavitt, in 1969 and Doris Louise Leavitt, in 1998. He is
survived by his wife of 50 years, Vicky Leavitt; his sons, Joel (with Kara) and
Justin (with Elis); and five cherished grandchildren: Mallorie, Eli, Rosie,
Timber Jean, and Olivia. His Sister, Patti Alexander, Brother, Terry
Leavitt (Sue), Sister Barbara Howard (James) and Niece Andrea Redfearn (Brian)
and Nephew Robert (Janae), children Zahara and Zoren.
Michael passed away on January 5, 2026,
surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his faith,
family, work, and community.