Mike O'Rourke

Richard Michael O’Rourke (most commonly known as Mike) was born in Telluride, Colorado April 25, 1936 to Donald and Frances (Brandiger) O’Rourke. He enlisted in the army in 1956 and after serving four years he returned to Colorado to attend Western State College in Gunnison. He earned a double degree in biology and geology. After graduation Mike was called by Sargent Shriver, himself, to serve in the first group of Peace Corps professionals where he lived in Malaya (now known as Malaysia) assisting in his capacity as a geologist to aid in building a road infrastructure. After his service to the Peace Corps, he traveled the world for a short stint before heading back to home in Colorado. Soon after, he began his 26-year career with the Colorado State Parks. This career took him to all parts of Colorado, but he ultimately landed here as the first manager of the Pueblo State Recreation Area as the park manager and retired as Assistant Regional Manager in 1994. It is Pueblo and the Pueblo West community that Mike called home – with countless dear friendships he made throughout the years. He was a charter member of the Pueblo West Eagles and dedicated many hours in service activities with this organization. Although he would not ever consider changing his hometown of Pueblo West, his heart has always remained in Telluride and spent many days relaxing at his cabin at Trout Lake. He was a life time member of the Telluride Elks and American Legion. He is preceded in death by parents; his sister, Patricia Kinman and his brother, Donny O’Rourke. He is survived by his brothers, Jerry and Jack (Lorre); his daughter, Kelly O’Rourke (Derek Fialkiewicz), son, Christopher O’Rourke; grandchildren, Katie, Michael, Angelina, Marek and Colin – additionally many wonderful nieces and nephews.