The Union Democrat

Michael Richard Phelan

1955 — 2021

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Betty Phelan and died on Oct. 14, 2021, at his boyhood Sonora home at the age of 66 from complicati­ons of cancer.

Michael was a graduate of Sonora Elementary School, Sonora High School, and San Francisco State University. He had additional studies at Columbia Jr College, Sacramento State University, and the School of Life.

Michael led an eclectic and varied life, working such jobs as a casino bartender, a process server for a law firm, a funeral director, a teacher, and a caregiver. He enjoyed artmaking kinetic sculptures and ceramics, and he was a party animal! He was very outgoing and, although he possessed a wicked sense of humor, he was a great listener and a gentle, caring friend who pulled people together. People were drawn to his wit and honesty.

He bravely fought his cancer for several years until the ravages to his body became insurmount­able. He was upbeat until the end.

Michael touched many lives through his kindness and generosity, and he will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his husband of 30-plus years, Harvey “Skip” Anderson; his four siblings, James Phelan (Pat), Judy Croom, George Phelan (Shannon), and Cathy Sapata. He was preceded in death by his father in 1973 and his mother in 2016.

A celebratio­n of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, at the Sonora Elks Lodge, 100 Elk Drive in Sonora.

The family suggests donations to: Bristol Hospice - Modesto, LLC, 1101 Sylvan Avenue, Suite B 10, Modesto, CA 95350, (209) 338-3000; the American Cancer Society; the Sarcoma Foundation of America; Interfaith Community Social Services, P.O. Box 5070, Sonora CA 95370, (209) 532-0905; or the charity of your choice.

 ?? ?? Michael Richard Phelan, a Sonora native, was born July 4, 1955, to Melvin and
Michael Richard Phelan, a Sonora native, was born July 4, 1955, to Melvin and

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