Michael Determan

Michael W. Determan, Jr., 38, of Roswell, NM passed away on Thursday, November 8, 2012, in Roswell. Michael was born in Roswell, NM on October 2, 1974 to Victoria A. Spurrier and Michael W. Determan, Sr. both of Roswell. Michael was an active, bright child involved in soccer, football, and basketball. His Uncle Don and his Dad were instrumental in starting the youth soccer program at Russ DeKay field in Roswell. Michael loved science, winning numerous awards in school. He was an honor student graduating from Goddard High School in 1993. There he transformed into the persona "Mike D.". His family later gave him the alias "Little Pic". After high school, Michael enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and completed his basic training at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California. He completed his military training in administration and explosives at Cherry Point, North Carolina. While serving his country, Michael received a Rifle Marksman Badge, a National Defense Service Medal, three Letters of Appreciation, a Meritorious Mast, a Certificate of Commendation, a Good Conduct Medal, a Commandant of the Marine Corps Letter of Recognition, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Michael loved his country and was proud to serve as a Marine. He was stationed in San Diego, California and Okinawa, Japan during his military career and was honorably discharged in 1997. On July 2, 1994, Michael married Nina Grado of Roswell. To this union was born Erik Alexander Determan on May 2, 1995. Erik was the light of Michael's life and his purpose for being. Michael was both a wonderful father and a best friend to his son. Erik survives him in Omaha, Nebraska, where he is a senior at Bellevue High School. After Michael's service to this great country that he loved deeply, he lived in Perrysburg, Ohio briefly then moved back to New Mexico. He lived in Roswell for a time then moved to Albuquerque where he worked for Holly Corporation as a mill operator. From there Michael began his career as a college student, determined to complete his education despite being a "non-traditional" student. His determination was evident as he commuted from Roswell to Portales every day for a year to attend Eastern New Mexico University, majoring in Archaeology. His fortitude was unmistakable as he sacrificed by living in a tent at Oasis State Park and commuted into town 21 miles one way each day. He did upgrade to a travel trailer but still commuted daily from the State Park. Michael graduated with his Associates Degree in 2008 and completed his Bachelor's Degree in 2010. He was accepted into the Masters Program in the Fall of 2011. He worked on several digs near Portales and was excited about his new passion, learning about the past through anthropology. Michael was a loving, kind soul who cared deeply for his family and friends. You could always count on him for a loving smile and a huge hug. He was the life of the party, wherever he was! Michael was an avid connoisseur of great music, TOOL or anything Maynard! He loved reading, gaming, and spending time with family and friends. He loved and hated golf, as any golfer will understand. He loved hunting, especially with his dad, son and uncles. He loved World of Warcraft, Halo, and Rock Band and spent many hours in pursuit of the perfect game. Michael was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Fines and Eva Spurrier, paternal grandparents Franklin A. and Lillie M. Determan, two uncles Jack Spurrier and Dee Spurrier and one cousin, T.J. Jordan. Michael was very fortunate to have a large loving family. They cherished him deeply and he cherished them. He is survived by his mother Victoria A. Spurrier, father Michael W. Determan, Sr., son Erik A. Determan, his loving canine companion, Lex; aunts Sheila Jordan, Lorie Kindrick, Cindy Callihan (Ken), Victoria Lusk (Joe Blood), and Sandra Heath (Kent); uncles Rick Spurrier (Linda), Jerry Spurrier, Franklin A. Determan Jr. (Brenda), Steven A. Determan (Rebecca), Donald J. Determan (Gloria), and numerous cousins. He is also survived by many more family members and friends who will miss his magnificent character and loving heart. A celebration of Michael's life will be held at Anderson-Bethany Funeral Home on Friday, November 16, 2012 at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow at South Park Cemetery in Roswell. Pallbearers will be Daniel Weems, Henry Ortiz, Nathan Spencer, Patrick Newman, Dale Crown, and Jeff Hargrove. Honorary pallbearers will be Tom Jordan, Jr., Rick Spurrier, Tony Determan, Steve Determan, Don Determan, Joe Blood Lusk, Ken Callihan, Kent Heath, Chad Determan, Bryan (Cody) Determan, Charlie Determan, Danny Lusk, Eric Overbey, Joey Determan, Jacob Determan, Jeremy Determan, Ty Jordan, Travis Wilson, Kenny Kendrick, Matt C., and Hugo Magaña. Family and friends will be received at Michael's family home, 800 E. 23rd Street following the services. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the ENMU Foundation benefitting their Archaeology Scholarship Fund. Gifts may be mailed to: ENMU Station 8, 1500 S. Avenue K, Portales, NM 88130. Please note that your gift is in memory of Michael W. Determan, Jr. Please take a moment to share your thoughts and memories in the online register book at andersonbethany.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson Bethany Funeral Home and Crematory.

Michael Determan

October 2, 1974 - November 8, 2012