Michael Ann Andersen

We are sad to announce the passing of Michael Ann Andersen of Lakebay, Washington on March 31, 2026, at the age of 83. Michael (also known as Mike or Mickey to many) was born Michael Ann Esser in Phoenix, Arizona on March 2, 1943, to parents Hans Wilhelm Esser and Margaret Jane Mitchell. She spent her childhood in Fort Collins, Colorado, being raised by her grandparents, before moving to Seattle, Washington, where she graduated from Bishop Blanchet High School. Mike married Gary Warren Andersen from Tacoma, her husband of 63 years, on February 22, 1963, and together they raised four sons- Chris, Greg, Matt, and Eric. In 1975, Mike and Gary built the home they would share together for the next 51 years in Lakebay.

Mike held a variety of jobs and roles over the course of her life, including medical receptionist, waitress, short order cook, restaurant manager, school bus driver, telephone lineman, soccer coach, and fishing buddy. But her mainstay engagement was always as homemaker, wife to Gary, and mother to her four boys. Mike was a lover of books, and her interests were varied, including animals, cooking, sewing, crafts, fishing, and all things “sciency”. She was loving and nurturing and well-loved in return. To borrow one of her favorite expressions, Mike was a “kick in the pants” to spend time with. She will be remembered fondly and missed dearly by all who knew her.

Michael is survived by husband Gary, sons Christopher Jon, Gregory Warren, Matthew Edward, and Eric Joseph, as well as 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, sister of her heart Vivian Rolfzen, and unofficially adopted daughter and dear friend Shannon Fenton.

In keeping with who she was and how she lived, Mike’s life will be celebrated later this summer at a gathering of friends and family, on a sunny day, with lots of colors (especially purple), good food, a few tears, and lots of laughing. Date and time of celebration to be announced.