[br][br]Passed away peacefully on June 23rd surrounded by loved ones. He was born Sept. 18, 1946 in Chewelah, Wa where he graduated from Jenkins H.S. in 1964. Michael was born to Arthur & Ruby (Hunter) Dechand & was older brother to Jay & Ward. He had great memories of times at the farm on the Burnt Valley, his sheep winning Grand Champion at the fair and achieving Order of the Arrow in Boy Scounts. Michael served in the Army from Oct. 1964 to Oct. 1967, spending 18 months of that as a flying crew chief in the 54th Aviation Company. Michael had various jobs until 1972 when he started working at Ryerson Steel, where he retired in 2001 after 29 years. Retirement left him time to enjoy a long time dream, the log home he designed, built and rarely wanted to leave. Michael had many fond memories of building & riding choppers, camping & off-roading, days at Priest Lake and times with family & friends. Michael will be remembered as a wise, loving, funny & intelligent Husband and father. Michael leaves behind his wife Leanne (Keefer), son Andrew (Michelle), daughter Brenda (Sean), grandson Zane, brothers Jay & Ward (Beverley). Many extended family and friends. We invite family & friends to a Celebration of his life on Saturday July 26th. For details contact 46mld14@gmail.com