Robert Michael “Mike” Sands, 78
Robert Michael “Mike” Sands, 78 of Columbia Falls, peacefully passed on to the loving arms of his family and friends in heaven on Feb. 21st, 2025. He was surrounded by his loving wife, children, and grandson during his passing.
Mike was born in Washington to Bob and Irene Sands. They lived State and Abroad as his father served as a Naval Officer. Mike’s family settled in Columbia Falls, where Mike later Graduated in 1966 as an accomplished all-state champion athlete in football and wrestling.
Mike enlisted with the Navy in 1967, first as UDT and later graduated from Naval Special Warfare Training to join U.S. Navy Seal Team One. He was honored with seven medals, including the Navy Commendation Metal and the Bronze Star “for Heroic achievements of outstanding duty and performance.” Ranked Petty Officer Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class, Mike was Honorably Discharged from the Navy in 1973.
Mike married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Cheryl Steele in 1968. They were married for 56 wonderful years. Tina, their daughter, was born in 1969 while Mike served in Vietnam. Michael, their son, was born in 1974 while Mike worked the oil industry.
His Seal Team accomplishments made him a natural candidate for the Diver’s Institute of Technology where he graduated Top in Class and spent 10 years as a Commercial Deep Sea Diver in the North Sea and Gulf of Mexico.
Their family returned to Columbia Falls where Mike built their home, started businesses, worked construction throughout Montana, and always supported the elderly community.
Mike was a talented artist. He specialized in one-of-a-kind, awe-inspiring, wildlife and nature pieces. His arrangements consist of hundreds to thousands of all natural-colored wood pieces, cut and placed into each masterpiece.
He is preceded in death by his parents Bob and Irene Sands; sister Iva Sands; in-laws Homer and Joyce Steele, and many beloved family and friends.
Mike cherished his time in life with, and was survived by his wife Cheryl; children Tina and Michael (Dina); grandchildren Brandon, Marissa (Ryan), Megan (Josh), Shawn Michael; great-grandbaby Easton Michael; sister Susie (Donald) Bradford; brother-in-law Shawn (Debbie) Steele, Shane Steele, Kim Steele and his many nieces, nephews, cousins and many wonderful friends including his little companion dog named Baby.
The Sands family has decided to postpone Mike’s memorial services until July of 2025 so that family and friends from many states can come together and celebrate his life.
Thanks to Darlington Cremation and Burial service for Mike’s final preparations.
Mike Sands