Obituary of Arthur Michael Whitfield

His Legacy… Michael Whitfield was born in Panama City, U.S. Canal Zone, Panama on October 14, 1941 to Guy and Helen Whitfield.   He lived in Panama until the age of five, when the family moved to Queens, New York. He grew up along with his brother, Kevin and sister Marianne.  His friend Jeremy Steig helped him obtain a U.S. Merchant Mariner’s document and begin his career.  His first assignment was a foreign voyage in December 1966 with the rating of steward.  He continued shipping for about two years before moving to California where he met Anna in April 1973.  They were married on May 1, 1974.  He adopted Anna’s two sons, Matthew and Rocky.  In 1978 he began shipping again and achieved the rank of Able-Bodied Seaman with a Tankerman’s Endorsement.  He was on the first U.S. flag ship to dock in China after relations were restored between the US and China.  In August 1981, his daughter, Marianne was born in L.A. while he was on a ship in the Marianas Islands.  In March 1984, his son Noah was born in La Mesa, California.  In 2002, Michael and Anna adopted their 5th child, Ryan. Michael was a poet and loved classical music, gambling, reading and current events. 

His Family… He is survived by his wife and children, brother and sister, and grandchildren Markus, Rocky Jr., Cora, Mason and Tyden.  

His Farewell Service… .  A celebration of his life will be Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 3:00 pm at the Oroville Salvation Army, 1640 Washington Avenue. Arrangements are entrusted to Ramsey Funeral Home 530-534-3877.