Michael Dow Clelland stepped through the veil at 11:28 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the age of 81. He was surrounded in love by his eternal companion Heather and many loved ones.
He was born to Roderick & Nathel Stapley Clelland on Tuesday December 29, 1942, in Mesa, Arizona at 8:05 a.m. He was the third child of 8 and the second son.
Michael was known in his life for being a talented piano tuner and technician throughout Arizona. He was so well known that he would travel to other states to work on pianos. He tuned for many celebrities performing in Arizona, keeping photographs with the likes of Barbara Eden and Sally Struthers always on display. Throughout his musical career, he proudly bypassed newer tuning technology to only tune by ear.
In addition to tuning and piano repair, he also ran his own piano store, Clelland Music, in Mesa where he sold all types of instruments. His love for music was passed on to his children and many of them played multiple instruments and even performed locally in a band together.
In his young adult years, he was an airplane pilot, working for banks, fisheries, and small businesses across the country. He often recounted stories about his flights, near fatal crashes he recovered, and piloting experiences in his life. He was also a flight instructor and valued education and his leadership as a father and mentor above all.
He had a deep love for his Savior and served in many callings in the LDS church with his whole heart. He loved testifying of his love and belief in Christ. He served a Spanish speaking mission in the Texas/New Mexico area for The LDS Church. He loved the people he served and kept in contact with them through the years. Prior to his illness, he was able to attend a family reunion for a convert he taught while on his mission. When he returned from his mission, he taught Spanish at a local school. His love for Spanish and teaching was a lifelong practice in his personal and professional life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roderick & Nathel Stapley Clelland, Sister Jacqueline Clelland, Brother Jeffrey Clelland, previous wife Connie Taylor and Granddaughter Brenna.
Left to carry on his love and traditions, are his loving wife Heather, his children and step-children and his siblings:
Jane Manookin, Jeanette Clelland, Jason (Nancy) Clelland, Jared (Shelly) Clelland, Nathan (Denise) Clelland, Rebecca (Dan) Bishop, Sara lyn (Nick) Pennington, Andrew (Tiara) Clelland, Christopher Clelland. Amy (Jonathan) Hallett, Monica (Todd) Nevenner, Samantha Morris, Logan (Noelle) Willbanks, Ashley (Nathan) Mabon. His legacy will live on with 33 grandchildren & 4 Great-Grandchildren. He also is survived by five sibling who will miss him deeply, but will continue on with his love and memories. Jean Clelland-Morin, Roderick II Clelland, Marty (Brent) Feltch, Christine (Robin) Greene, Shelley (Rich) Meek.
He will be greatly missed, and we know that we will see him again.
We appreciate the love and tender care that was given to him by American Premier Hospice. They will always be a part of our hearts and family.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Mesa Kimball Stake Center, 1266 S. 32nd St. Mesa, AZ 85204. A viewing will be held at 9:00 a.m. with a service to follow at 10:00 a.m. Burial service will be held at the Mesa City Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.
The Service will be viewable on Zoom. https://www.youtube.com/live/ScDReJPjP4k?app=desktop&feature=share
Final arrangements were lovingly and delicately taken care of by Bunker Family Funeral Homes.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
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