Michael Lenz
March 24, 1950 - February 2, 2026
Location Of Death: John Day , OR United States
- County: Grant County
- City: John Day
- Funeral Home: Tami's Pine Valley Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Celebrating Life
Michael Lenz, 75, of John Day, OR. died on February 2, 2026 at his home. A celebration of life will be held March 28, 2026 at 1:00pm at The John Day Elks Lodge.
Mike was born on March 24, 1950 in Prairie City, OR. He was raised in Seneca and went to school there from 1st to 8th grade. He later attended Grant Union High School in John Day from 9th through 12th where he graduated in May of 1968.
Following graduation Mike was drafted into the United States Army where he served in the 19th Artillery, 1st Cav Division in Vietnam as a radio operator. He was honorably discharged on November 19, 1970.
Mike married his high school sweetheart Judy (Judith) Talbott on September 4, 1971. He worked for Hudspeth, Hines Lumber and John Day Lumber until it closed. For 51 years, Mike was a member of the John Day Elks Lodge.
He loved his dog Emma and “granddog” Jinks, taking them for numerous rides through the day which also involved lurking about town to see what was happening. He adored feeding the birds and watching them peck around the gravel. The hummingbirds were his favorite, with quail being a close second.
Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching his children and grandchildren play sports. The garden was his favorite place to be in the summer. He loved to see what he could get to grow each year. The smiles were wide when he had a new blossom.
He was preceded in death by his parents Milton Lenz and Madeline Lach; sister Patty and her husband George Walker.
Mike is survived by his wife of 54 years Judy Lenz; daughter Ali (Brian) Lenz; son Corey Lenz and his partner Michele Upson; grandchildren Taylor, Alexis, Avery, Garrett, and Sheldon; great grandchildren Aspyn, Luka, and Gus; nieces and nephews Stan, Steve, Cassie, Stacie, Tim, Kristi, and Kimberly.
For those who would like to make a memorial donation in honor of Michael the family suggests the John Day Elks veterans or youth activities or The Blue Mt. Hospital Foundation through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home & Cremation Services, PO Box 543, Halfway, OR. 97834. Online condolences can be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com
