Michael Peter Oklejas Obituary

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my husband, Michael Peter Oklejas, in Ann Arbor, Michigan on July 1, 2022 at the age of 75. Mike loved life and struggled to recover from MS, but alas, he succumbed to the disease that robbed him of his mobility in his final years. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Eli Oklejas, his mother Patricia Milovich Oklejas and his two faithful canine companions, Rudy his beloved German Shepard, and Chester the beagle. Mike leaves behind his wife of 14 years, Barbara "Sita Devi" Keane, his caring and devoted brothers, Eli Oklejas and Robert Oklejas, and his daughter Vanessa Blue Oklejas, who was the light of his life and more important and special to him than anything in this world. No greater love did a father have for his daughter than Mike had for Vanessa. Mike was a loving and devoted dad throughout his life and a proud parent. Mike's only grandchild was Thomas Moison of Peidmont, California. Mike attended Michigan State University as an undergrad where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, and became a lifelong Spartans fan. Mike traveled throughout the world during the long course of his career as an engineer, where he was an innovator in his field and designer of complex pump systems that purified water on an industrial scale. Mike worked tirelessly with his overseas colleagues to bring potable water to countries with limited fresh water resources. Mike had an active social life as well, and was a fixture at the Fleetwood Diner in downtown Ann Arbor when he wasn't traveling abroad, where he was known as diet coke Mike. Mike would go to the Fleetwood Diner daily for breakfast to load up on pancakes, and engage in lively conversations with other diners and the owner Andy. Mike was deeply loved and highly regarded by his family and friends for his loyalty, generosity and intellectual prowess. He practiced yoga and meditation and attended weekly gatherings at his friend Atmaran's house for many years. Atmananda and his wife Kashi graciously visited Mike while he was homebound to keep him company and provide him with comfort. Mike was also a member of the Amma Center of Michigan and a long time devotee of Mata Amrtianandamayi Ma (also known as Ammachi) of Kerala, India. Amma gave Mike a mantra and the spiritual name Jagadish, and was extremely gracious to him throughout his life. Amma will continue to shower Mike's soul with Her love, grace and care on his journey through the after life. Mike is missed every moment of every day by his wife Barbara, who was by his side when he took his last breath. Barbara has immense gratitude that Mike shared his life with her and will treasure their memories together. Mike was a wonderful husband who never forgot their anniversary. He was the strongest man she had ever known, brave and ever hopeful. You suffered tremendously, and I pray now you are at peace with your ancestors in heaven. You will never be forgotten and live on in the hearts of those whose lives you touched. Until we meet again my love, Godspeed to you.

"Grieve not, Nor speak of me with tears, But laugh And talk of me As if I were beside you. I loved You so ‘twas heaven here with you." ~
Isla Paschal Richardson