Michael Lee Ehrlich

Michael Lee Ehrlich passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 27, 2021. 

Michael was born in Peoria, Illinois on April 16, 1943. He attended Richwoods High School where he was an all-around athlete. During this time, he spent some time working for his father at M. L. Ehrlich & Sons Construction Company. Michael loved recalling fun memories of his childhood with his parents, brothers and extended family.

Michael continued his education at the University of Colorado Boulder. It was there that he met his love, Joanne C. Hope. They were married for 57 years, and she was his strongest supporter. He was a proud member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, where he made amazing memories and close friendships including a lifelong best friend. Michael earned a Law Degree from University of Colorado Law School and proceeded to practice law for his entire life in the Boulder and Denver area. The family moved to Centennial, CO where they raised their two daughters. Michael enjoyed traveling, golfing, tennis, reading, debating and crossword puzzles. He was an avid sports fan and had a passion for the ocean, boats and sailing which developed at a young age.

Michael was a devoted husband, loving father, amazing grandfather, loyal friend and poodle lover. He was intelligent, informative, guiding, supportive, dedicated and a wealth of knowledge. Michael was a charismatic man, kind, sensitive and always spoke the truth. He celebrated all the great things in life and faced challenges with a positive never-give-up attitude. He enjoyed life to its fullest! 

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Ona P. Ehrlich (Short) and Marvin L. Ehrlich, and brothers, David Ehrlich and Gene Ehrlich. At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Joanne C. Ehrlich (Hope), his daughters, Jennifer “Romy” (Rick) Thomas of Centennial, CO, Michelle “Missy” (Warren) Gest of Toms River, NJ, and four incredible grandchildren, McKenzie Thomas, Madison Thomas, Fletcher Gest and Spencer Gest. They will never forget the impact that he made on their lives! 

He will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him! Love you to the moon and back! Sail on!