Michael Degan

Michael “Mike” Degan, a proud Brooklyn native and decorated World War II Navy veteran, passed away at the remarkable age of 101. Mike earned a Victory Medal for his service to his country. In 1960, Mike brought his considerable talents as a mechanical engineer to the Las Vegas area embarking on a distinguished career with a major defense industry contractor at the Nevada Test Site. He found immense satisfaction in his work, particularly his contributions to the groundbreaking first Mars Exploration Rover. Even in retirement, Mike’s passion for creation endured; he meticulously built and improved projects around his home from intricate clocks to practical solar powered systems.

Mike was a testament to independent living, maintaining his home, cooking, cleaning and tending to his landscaping well into his second century. He remained intellectually curious, exploring the internet, watching YouTube programs, and always finding something to tinker with in his workshop.

He shared loving marriages to Edith Martin Degan from 1963 until her passing in 1980 and with Carol Degan from 1983 until her death in 2005. Though he had no biological children, he cherished the companionship of his spouses’ children and grandchildren. Mike is survived by step-daughter Pam Minick, and his step-grandchildren Adam Sanderson, Adrian Wilkins and Jamie Tucker, Tina Haggerty and their families. The family is deeply grateful to Patty Cerboskas Cook and Barb “Punky” Chapman for their special care. Private family remembrances will be held.