Michael "Mike" Gene Isbell, 56, died on July 4, 2015 while at Baptist Hospital, being cared for by incredibly skilled and compassionate doctors and nurses.
Mike is survived by his wife of 29 years, Mary Lodes Isbell, his son Evan, 22 and daughter Eryn 19, of Edmond, OK.
Mike was born in Enid, OK on March 12, 1959 to his late father, Bill Isbell and mother, Barbara Woodward Isbell of Waukomis. He is survived by his brother, Jim Isbell, sister-in-law Mary and brother Pat Isbell. He was preceded in death by sisters, Katrina Coon and Frieda Isbell. He was admired and loved by his brothers and sisters-in-law, as well as his nieces and nephews.
Mike grew up in Waukomis, OK working with his dad and brothers on the family farm. He attended SWOSU in Weatherford and completed his undergraduate degree and earned his Master's in Business Administration at UCO in Edmond, OK. He worked at the OK Tax Commission as an Administrator in the Ad Valorem Division for 26 years.
At the age of 21, Mike was injured while at work, and suffered a spinal cord injury, which left him a quadriplegic. Although this kind of injury might have stopped others, Mike persevered. He completed his education, married and was the proud father of his two children. He was an incredible provider, husband, father, son, brother and friend. He had an amazing outlook on life and a wicked wit! Those who knew him will most likely miss his humor the most.
Recently Mike was diagnosed with cancer and bravely chose to fight it. He lost his battle peacefully, surrounded by tremendously loyal family and friends.
His funeral will be held on July 11, 2015 at St. John the Baptist Church in Edmond, OK at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to United Cerebral Palsy.
