Lewis Michael Rowan

Michael was born and raised in Huntington West "By God" Virginia, where he lived until he was nineteen and enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War. He had two tours of Vietnam stationed in the Tonkin Bay. Upon his honorable discharge, he attended Marshall University and found his lifelong passion for Theatre Arts and acting. He performed as an actor across the US in NY, NJ. Tennessee, Texas, Arizona, Illinois, and Colorado.

While living in Chicago he was a founding member of the political, social satire comedy troupe Waiters by Day, Comedy by Night. The troupe performed in multiple venues throughout Chicago Land.

Mike moved to Colorado with his wife Johanna and son Conor in 1987, and in 1989 co founded Shadow Mountain Theatre, now Stage Door Theatre, in Conifer, and his legacy lives on as the theater is completing its 36th year. He performed in many of the theater's productions, and his most memorable one was as the Hairy Man, In Wiley and the Hairy Man, delighting children, young and old for many years.

Mike worked for the IATSE Local 7 Union for 25 years, as a stagehand specializing in camera operations. During this time, he discovered a joy of cartooning and developed a unique style that is appreciated to this day in road cases throughout the world. His characters included SWAG and Pixel.

Michael is survived by his former wife, Johanna, son Conor, stepdaughter Carolyn and his five grandchildren, Sara, Raurie, Finbar, Maeve, and Declan.

Mike loved Irish Culture and Music, and he was so happy to visit the country twice. He shared this love with his family and friends. So, in his honor raise a glass to beautiful, irreverent, talented Michael, and listen to the Parting Glass by Liam Clancey.

Mike was loved by so many, and will be very, very missed. We will have a celebration of life in the coming months.

Slainte' and Safe Home Michael!