Michael Ross Finnell

Michael “Mickey” Ross Finnell, 83, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, and friend, Mike will be remembered for his sharp wit, gentle humor, and the love and laughter that colored every chapter of his remarkable life.

Born on May 4, 1942, in Plattsburgh, New York, Mike grew up on a small family farm, surrounded by horses, chickens, pigs, and cows. His early years instilled in him a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the simple joys of life. In 1951, the family loaded all their belongings onto a train and moved to Brattleboro, Vermont. Mike blossomed as a student and leader, eventually graduating from St. Michael’s High School in 1960 with honors. As class president and player on the undefeated basketball team that won the Class M State Championship, he demonstrated the drive and leadership that would guide him through the years to come.

After high school, Mike borrowed his father’s car and headed southwest, beginning an apprenticeship as a Toolmaker at General Electric in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. During his apprenticeship he gathered the little money he had and bought his beloved ’57 black Bel Air with white fins—which ended up getting damaged when a girl sideswiped him. In 1963, with his smashed-up car and an adventurous spirit, he drove across the country to Phoenix, Arizona, where he settled into his first apartment, got hired on full-time at GE, and unknowingly set the stage for the most significant chapter of his life.

While volunteering at a local Phoenix recreation center coaching girls' volleyball, Mickey caught the attention of a mother who thought he’d be perfect for her daughter, Judi. She was right. A few private lessons and playful drives home later, a romance blossomed—and the two quickly found that they were meant to share far more than a volleyball court. Mike and Judi married on September 9, 1967, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with warmth, laughter, love, and adventure. Together they raised two sons, Scott Michael, born in 1971, and Douglas James, born in 1973.

Mike’s career took the young family across the country and around the world—from Oklahoma City to Southern California, and then to far-away Malaysia in 1984, where he accepted a management position with Atlas Industries. Returning to the U.S. in 1987, and later relocating to Tucson, Mike and Judi lived a life they loved, full of family gatherings, sunsets, monsoons, vacations, and humor that echoed through their home on four acres of desert beauty.

Mike was known for his quiet manner, his intelligence, and his easygoing charm. He loved grilling, camping, traveling, and spending time with his family. He was happiest with Judi by his side—whether relaxing at home, gambling in Las Vegas, cruising around the Caribbean, or watching his favorite Alaska reality shows.

Mickey is survived by his wife, Judi; sons, Scott and Doug; and countless friends and loved ones who were touched by his humor and heart. These family and friends will forever miss his smile, quick wit, and smart-ass remarks.

We miss the joy he brought into every day and his quiet strength that made our world so much brighter. But most of all we all just miss Mike Finn.