Michael Thomas Tams

Michael "Mike" Tams passed away at age 88 on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Westward Heights Care Center in Lander, Wyoming. He leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and stories that will be told for years to come.

Born on January 1, 1937, in Berkeley, California, to Barbara Tams, Mike later found a strong father figure and grandfather to his children in Perrin Wagner when Barbara remarried. He spent his life in several places: Reno, NV; the Denver, CO area; and for the last 42 years, Lander, WY where he built a warm and fulfilling life.

Mike shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Linda Tams. Together, they raised a loving family, including his children Cheryl, Janet, and Darrin (Sandy); his grandchildren, Heather (Cody) and Ashley; two great-grandchildren; a niece and nephew, and many cousins. As a longtime member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, Mike found deep faith and community throughout his life.

After graduating from high school in Westminster, CO, Mike attended University of Colorado for two years before beginning a long and fulfilling career. He worked as a laborer for Nielson Construction and served in the National Guard for six years as a cook, including a nine-month deployment to Fort Sill during the Berlin Crisis. But his most memorable work came from his 32-year career as a Service Engineer for General Electric Medical Systems, where he repaired and installed medical equipment across Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska. Mike was adored by the medical staff he worked with; so much so that it was common for him to be greeted with, "Mike's here, somebody get the poppy seed cake (or cookies) ready!"

Beyond work, Mike filled his life with the simple joys that made every day meaningful. He was an avid fisherman, spending countless hours at Rabbit Ears Pass, the Steamboat Springs surrounding area, and the beaver ponds near Fraser, CO. His love for gardening started young. During WWII, his kindergarten class had a victory garden, and Mike, determined to be its sole caretaker, famously locked his classmates out so he could be the only one to water the plants.

Mike's craftsmanship was second to none, and one of his proudest personal projects was a beautifully crafted miniature dollhouse, complete with intricate details that showcased his patience and creativity. When he wasn't building something, he was chasing something, namely, hot air balloons. He loved following them as they floated through the sky, always ready to help with a landing (and, of course, crack a joke or two).

Mike was known for his quick wit and signature humor, anyone who spent time with him was sure to hear a groan-worthy punchline. He loved to tease and be teased right back, making every conversation an opportunity for a laugh.

Mike lived his life with warmth, humor, and an endless supply of stories. He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who cherished him, and a legacy of laughter that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on March 7, 2025, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 875 Fremont St, Lander, WY.

The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Community Entry Services (CES) of Lander supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries in the State of Wyoming. Please include "In memory of Mike Tams" when making your donation. Donations can be made Online (using PayPal), By Mail or In Person. For detailed instructions, please visit: https://www.ces-USA.gov/donate.