Charles Ivarson

Charles “Mike” Ivarson was born and raised in Denver, Colorado to Barbara and Arthur Ivarson on December 8th, 1948 and was the oldest of five siblings.  Mike attended Adams City High School until leaving for Vietnam in 1966 at 17 years old.  He earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Navy Unit Commendation Medal.  

Mike left the Navy in September 1969 and returned to Denver where he established a successful janitorial company serving businesses through-out the Denver metro area. Years later, he became employed by the city of Aurora and Commerce City as a public works and street maintenance employee until spontaneity and yearning for adventure and travel took him to work in McMurdo Bay, Antarctica in 1994. While spending “The Summer” in Antarctica. He provided direct support to the National Science Foundation’s sponsored research projects managed by Antarctica Science Foundation.

Mike enjoyed bowling leagues, family game nights, and anything outdoors. He loved camping, fishing, hunting, the Colorado aspens and star gazing.  His love for adventure and travel was limitless.  He enjoyed working on the yard and watering the lawn with a cigar in his hand, morning and night. He always had a tremendous soft spot for rescue animals and would bring them home when he could. 

Mike Ivarson is survived by his children Carla (Jim), Angela (Jonathan), Nanci, Stephanie, Jennifer (Adam), Nicole (Kiko), Michael Jr. and Erika (Adrian). Mike’s heart was full with 27 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.  Mike’s siblings include Debbie, Chris, and Randy Ivarson.  He is preceded in death by his Father Art, Mother Barbara, Grandmother Faye, and Brother Steve. His life partner Lee, whom remained loyal friends to each other as the foundation of parents and grandparents to the family they created.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Mike to any of these great organizations:

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Rocky Mountain Chapter: Team Alexa
Fisher House Foundation
Freedom Service Dogs of America

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