MONTROSE – Mike Ouellette, age 60, of Montrose, passed away early Tuesday morning, Aug. 17, 2010, at his home. Ouellette was born Jan. 26, 1950 to Norman Joseph and Emily Marie Ouellette at Denver, Colo. He spent his childhood in Englewood and Denver, graduating from Lincoln High School in Denver. Ouellette went on to college in the Denver area using his natural artistic talent as an Architectural Design Engineer. He also served his country in the United States Army.

Ouellette relocated to the Western Slope, spending time in the Ridgway area for the past 13 years. He was a member of Elk’s Lodge in Ouray, and managed The Bunkhouse Lodge in Ridgway. Two years ago he moved to Montrose, where he lived until until his time of death.

Ouellette had a natural talent and eye for photography, something he had always enjoyed doing. He was a bow and arrow maker and very artistic with his hands, as he painted tiles, worked leather and quilted.

Surviving family members include Ouellette’s brothers, Ray Ouellette of Crestone, Colo., Norman Ouellette of Carlsbad, Calif., sister, Pam Wilson of Thornton, Colo., and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother, Joseph Ouellette.

A memorial service in celebration of Ouellette’s life was held on Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2010, 6 p.m. at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel. At his request, cremation has preceded the service. The service will conclude at the chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Crippin Funeral Home and Crematory in Montrose.