Michael Lee Clements

Michael Lee Clements passed away on June 23, 2010 at St. Peter Hospital Olympia, Washington after a stoic battle against aggressive stage 4 cancer.

Michael was born on December 16, 1947 at Camp Murray in Tacoma Washington. Michael was raised all over the US; his Father was in the Army. He was brought up to be self-confident and dependable. These were traits that would serve him well throughout his life.

As a young child, Michael was never someone who needed to be the center of attention. He wasn't pushy and never forced his way into games or other activities. Michael developed a variety of interests and the things he enjoyed doing, he did well. He was always curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Michael had a lot of athletic interests, Football being the most enjoyable. In his spare time he liked cars. However, what Michael enjoyed most was simply playing and spending time with his many friends.

He graduated from Frankfurt High, Germany in 1962. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. Michael was a very logical person who enjoyed learning about factual information. Using his exceptional memory, he was able to learn much through observation. Michael always seemed to have a command of the facts and was able to make it seem as though he could easily master any problem that might be presented to him.

Michael was an Army Veteran. Michael saw action for six years in Vietnam. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class. A literal thinker who possessed a calm exterior, Michael seemed to enjoy the routines set forth by the military. His results-oriented approach to things made him committed to the job, and he understood well his role in serving his country.

On October 1, 1972 Michael exchanged wedding vows with Tu Thi Pham at the Courthouse of Ft. Hood, Texas. He took the responsibility of marriage to heart, giving it his total commitment.

Michael was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Michael's favorites was Duke, a German Sheppard (his first dog) and his grand dog: Scooby.

Michael was a man who was dedicated and devoted to his faith. He was a member of the Catholic Church. He was a sympathetic man who valued his beliefs and was willing to work tirelessly for them.

He is survived by his wife Pham, his son Michael: Brothers; Eddie, David and Robert, Sisters; Molly and Sandy.

Services will be held at Mills and Mills Funeral Home in Tumwater, WA on Monday June 28th at 5:00 p.m. with a viewing one hour prior to the services. Michael will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery.