Michael Dean Harlick

Michael Dean Harlick, 68, died peacefully in his sleep during the morning hours of February 19, 2011. Affectionately known by many of his friends as, “Captain Mikey” and “Dad-o” by his children, Michael was married to Cheryl for nearly 44 years. His greatest joys were his children, Chermi Harlick, Michael R. Harlick and Kristin Baerg, and a gentle and generous son-in-law he loved like his own, David Baerg. He was proud of his three grand children, Drake Harlick, and Daphne and Jimmy Baerg. A grandpa couldn’t ask for a better trio of grandkids. Michael was always thankful for his Dad’s choice of a loving and generous stepmother, Judy.

Michael was proud of his 36 years added to the family total employment of 197 years over three generations at Boeing. Michael joined the Coast Guard at 18 and followed it with college. He began work at Boeing in various areas from tool design, project interiors and structures and engineering standards development at retirement. Michael spent a few hours each day reverse engineering his 41’ sloop, Rhapsody, into a set of drawings, as well as designing new parts for his ongoing work to make the boat what he wanted it to be. Michael sailed cruising boats for 35 years and knew the fickleness of local waters.

After retirement in 2002, Michael spent part of most days on the boat or working in the garage to machine standards accuracy on parts he fabricated for the boat. Each day was spent with the constant companionship of his dog, Jake, who at 17 is missing his best boat buddy very much.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother Elsa, father Michael W., and sisters, Gretchen and Carol.

No services will be held at this time.

Arrangements under the direction of Acacia Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington.