It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mike A. Cham, better known as Tony, at 63 years old. He was born in British Columbia, Canada on Nov. 7 th 1961 to Mike and Gertrude. In 1968 they moved to Oceanside, OR after his parents purchased The Schooner Restaurant & Lounge on Netarts Bay. His childhood was full of adventure as he and his siblings were always active outdoors on the beach or in the woods. He attended Sacred Heart School until his Junior Year when it closed and then graduated from Tillamook High class of 1979.
In his early years, his hobbies revolved around all things outdoors: hunting, fishing, trapping, and exploring new areas. He developed a passion for fly fishing and spent hundreds of hours refining his cast, tying flies, and trudging up mountain streams and around the lakes. He taught himself archery and although he never stuck a trophy, he was successful several times. He learned to hand-call coyotes and would sit in a blind and bring them close. He trained his labrador to retrieve ducks. He even drew a highly sought-after Big Horn Sheep tag in 2003, an opportunity considered rare, and he successfully harvested a good ram.
In 1988 he joined the conservation group Order of The Antelope based out of Lakeview, Oregon. He was a proud member and made the annual Trek to Hart Mountain every year. It was one of his favorite places on Earth. He was honored with their Lifetime Achievement Award just last month- an accolade only bestowed six times previously in the 88-year history of the foundation.
In more recent years, his hobbies changed, but his passions stayed the same. He began volunteering at Tillamook Anglers Whiskey Creek Hatchery where he found friendship and camaraderie amongst the other volunteers. He loved contributing to the annual fin clipping and helping with the handicap fishing day. He enjoyed watching his grandkids develop the same love of outdoors that he always had, “passing the torch” as he would say. When his legs would no longer carry him on his adventures, he was happy just to go for a drive in the woods and glass for critters.
He is survived by his loving wife and soulmate of 32 years, Denise. Three Stepchildren: Jenny, Jesse, and Brian. Two Sons: Chris & Jeremy. Siblings: Carla McKinley of Spokane, WA. Steve Cham of Tillamook. John Cham of Wilsonville. As well as 12 grandchildren.
A celebration of life potluck will be held at Whiskey Creek Hatchery on September 6th from 2pm to 5pm. Friends are encouraged to join & bring their favorite side.