ObituaryMike Oliver left this
world April 14, 2010 with his family by his
side.
He was born April 21, 1954, in Jacksonville
to Charles and Betty Oliver.
Growing up, Mike spent countless hours at
the go kart track with his father, brothers,
and friends. He loved motorcycles, cars,
and working with engines. It was during
this time that the nickname of “Michael
Darlin” began and continued to follow Mike
his entire life.
He graduated from Andrew Jackson High
School in 1972. He started his career at
the old jail in 1976. Following a childhood
dream, he entered into the JSO Police
Academy and graduated in 1977. He
thoroughly enjoyed all of his years of
service until he retired 1997. He was a
long time board member of the Fraternal
Order of Police and helped to secure the
benefits that officers enjoy today.
Mike was a 32 Degree Master Mason and a
member of Ezra Lodge #67. He was also a
member of Morocco Shriners and the
Spitfires.
Mike loved Elvis music and oldies. He
had a niche for hosting great parties. His
love of music is shared and will continue to
be enjoyed by all who were close to him.
He was well known for his love of
politics. He knew how to play the game and
loved to do so. Many sought his opinions
during voting seasons and he accepted that
privilege with pride.
On August 26, 2003, he was diagnosed with
a rare blood cancer known as POEMS
Syndrome. His story is documented at
www.apoemsstory.com.
His fight and endurance was an inspiration
to us and all who knew him.
Mike was preceded in death by his father
and best friend, Charles “Gopher” Oliver in
1984, stepfather Richard Houck in 2007,
mother and care giver, Betty Houck in 2009,
and longtime faithful companion, Gidge in
2009.
His memory will be cherished by wife
Karen, daughters Michelle (Alex) and Krystle,
sons Warren (Karissa) and Brian, grandsons
Mikey, Troy and Zander, granddaughters
Shyann, Daisee and Addisyn, brothers Bruce
and Kevin, sister Gayle, faithful companion
Darlin, many extended family members and
close friends.
The family will receive friends for a
visitation from 5 to 8pm on Monday, April 19
at North Jacksonville Baptist Church, 8531
N. Main St. Funeral services will be at
11am, Tuesday, April 20 at North
Jacksonville Baptist Church. Interment will
be held at Evergreen Cemetery. Arrangements
by Hewell & Sons Funeral Home, 4747 N Main
St, 355-9545. In lieu of flowers, you may
make donations to the Jax FOP Foundation or
NE FL Community Hospice. Our family chain is
broken and nothing seems the same. However,
as God calls us up one by one the chain will
link again.
