Michael Ness

Michael Stephen Ness, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on May 29, 2025, at the age of 63. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on January 27, 1962, Mike spent his early years in Vancouver, Washington and Damascus, Oregon where he grew up with his siblings Connie Schadewitz and Steve Ness. He graduated from Sam Barlow High School in 1980.

As a young man, Mike lived in Southern California, where he served in the U.S. Navy on a submarine, embodying a sense of duty and adventure that stayed with him throughout his life. He married his wife, Stefanie, and together they raised their two children, Beth and Chris, in Vancouver.

Mike had a rich and varied life, working in multiple careers beginning with a career of learning the wallpapering trade from his father, Lutz, to owning his own business, moving on to a career of counseling at Westminster Memorial Park in California. Later he enjoyed more than a dozen years as a C-Tran bus driver. He then worked as a semi-retired school bus driver for Head Start — a role he took pride in, knowing he was making a difference for young kids every day.

A true craftsman at heart, Mike found joy in restoring classic cars and Volkswagens, woodworking, landscaping, and designing. He loved dogs, collecting antiques and coins, getting lost in a good movie, cheering on his favorite Green Bay Packers, hiking in nature, and reading Stephen King novels. His creative spirit and curiosity were evident in everything he touched.

Mike most recently lived in Long Beach, Washington, where he enjoyed the coastal lifestyle and spending time with friends. Above all, he was a loving and devoted father, husband, brother, and son. His warmth, humor, and the way he could light up a room with laughter will be dearly missed.

A memorial service to honor his life will be held on August 9th, 2025 at New Heights Church. All who knew him and loved him are invited to attend.

Mike will be remembered for the joy he brought to others, his generous spirit, and the love he had for those around him.