James Michael McLendon

December 2, 1970 – March 20, 2023

Born: James Michael McLendon born 12/2/70 in Douglas Arizona

Raised: Mike lived in Douglas until 3rd grade, moving with the family to Pinetop, Arizona and eventually Tempe Arizona.

Education: Michael attended Bustoz Elementary, Connolly Jr. High School and graduated from McClintock High School in 1989. He later attended Maricopa Community College, Northern Arizona University and University of Phoenix.

Work History: Michael spent 10+ years at Motorola before joining ASU full time. Michael was the first and only recipient of the Most Spirited ASU faculty/ Staff Award. Voted on by his ASU peers. Michael was hired by ASU financial services department in 2006 and then to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, as well as the Dean’s office working with the financial services planning team where he worked for 4 years. Mike then moved into the ASU History Department where he served as the Business operations manager, leaving to fulfill his final role as Program Manager to facilitate financial operations for the Cosmology Initiative.

Hobbies/Enjoyments/Other Special Mentions: Michael grew up an avid Sun Devil fan. He was a season ticket holder for Sun Devil football, basketball and baseball. He enjoyed being outdoors and loved to hike, camp, and enjoy the sunset from his paddleboard. Michael was a follower of local music, spending time at Long Wong’s, Yucca Tap Room, and Tempe Tavern. He would often travel to see Pearl Jam as their music always soothed his soul.

Preceded by: Michael was preceded in death by his uncle Robert “Uncle Bob” McLendon and Aunt Peggy Colwell.

Survived by: Michael is survived by his daughter Michaela Lynn, Mother Virginia K. Brennan (husband Steve), Father Jim Don McLendon, sisters Lori Lovitt and Leslie Hagerty (husband Tim), nieces Sara Lewis (husband Dalton), Ariana Hagerty and nephew Dylan Hagerty.

Special Remembrance: He was everyone’s friend and loved to make people smile and feel special. He will be missed greatly. A Celebration of Life will take place at Boondocks Tempe located at 1024 E. Broadway Road, Tempe on March 31st from 4:00 pm-8:00pm.
Instead of flowers, we ask that you have a shot of tequila while listening to your favorite local band. He would prefer it that way.