Michael Leroy Sorenson

HAMILTON - Michael Leroy Sorenson, 64, of Hamilton passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014 at his home. He was born March 16, 1950 in Minot, ND the son of Norman and Cora (Halvorson) Sorenson.
- Michael moved with his family to the Bitterroot valley in 1953 due to the construction of the Garrison Dam. He attended Washington School, West View and Hamilton High School graduating in 1968. His family farmed, ranched and logged and took great pride in their livestock and horses. They were involved in the Pony of America Club as well raising Appaloosa Horses. Michael referred to his family roots in North Dakota as the "Old Country".
- Michael attended the University of Montana majoring in Forestry. He was very proud to have served his country in the US Army and the Montana Army National Guard for six years, receiving his honorable discharge on June 25, 1976.
- Michaels's sister Noreen introduced him to Shirley Lindstrom when they were employed at St. Patrick Hospital. He later married his child bride on July 29, 1979 and together they have 6 children. Together they built their home on the family ranch in Hamilton where they continued the family legacy of ranching, as were his parent's wishes with the registered brand, Bar B Q. Integrity and responsibility were of utmost importance to Mike. He was employed at the S and W Sawmill in Conner and later transferred in 1984 to Smurfit Stone in Missoula. Mike remained there until February of 2010. His favorite position there consisted of operating the D10R CAT. According to Mike's co-workers his work ethic was exemplary. His sense of humor would always create a positive atmosphere.
- Mike's many passions included hunting, fishing, working on classic cars and riding his Harley. He also enjoyed telling jokes and composing limericks. Mike had overwhelming health issues in his later years but he was always thankful for the time he had with family and friends.
- Michael was a member of the Bitterroot Valley Dusters Pioneer and Classic Auto Club, the NRA, Faith Lutheran Church and the Canyon Creek Irrigation District.
- Michael was preceded in death by his son, Jason Michael Sorenson; his niece, Kimberly Sutherland; and his parents, Norman and Cora Sorenson. He is survived by his wife Shirley of Hamilton; his children, Scott (Jody) Sorenson, Justin (Janenne) Sorenson, Angelica Sorenson; his step-children, Jacqueline Thomas, Jeri Lynn (Wally) Cooper; 2 sisters, Monica (Brian) Sutherland and Noreen Johnson; 3 granddaughters, Desiree (Peter) Karst, and Ashley and Kaylee Sorenson; 1 grandson, Gage Sorenson; 2 great-granddaughters, Brittany and Madi Karst; 5 nephews, 6 great-nephews and 1 great-niece.
- The family suggests that memorial be made in Mike's name to the Veterans Memorial Monument (P.O. Box 1391, Hamilton, MT 59840) or to Faith Lutheran Church (171 Lewis Lane, Hamilton, MT 59840).