Michael T. Lockabey, of Wrangell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away on Jan. 25, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children.
A loyal and devoted family man, he is survived by his wife and life partner of 52 years, two children, four grandchildren and one great-grandson.
Michael was born in San Francisco, California, on March 6, 1953. Drawn to hard work and the outdoors, he moved to Alaska in 1973 and began his logging career. He later transitioned into commercial fishing, spending much of his life on the waters of Southeast Alaska.
Known to most as Mike, he was a true entrepreneur, built a charter fishing business, Tenacious Charters, as well as several retail stores and other ventures. After decades of dedicated work, he was able to enjoy the last years of his life, snow-birding to his second home in Yuma, Arizona, while still spending summers in Wrangell, a well-earned balance between two places he loved, his family wrote.
Mike was a man of many words and never short on conversation. He loved thoughtful discussions and spirited debates, especially about world affairs and politics. He followed current events closely and cared deeply about what was happening in his own backyard and beyond.
Whether the topic was serious or playful, he was always willing to have a meaningful conversation. It didn’t matter the topic, he would thoughtfully discuss serious questions posed by his children or grandchildren. Questions like, “If a dinosaur walked across the road and a dragon was on the other side, who would win the fight?” were never dismissed, only explored with joy and imagination.
An avid outdoorsman (“avid” is truly an understatement), Mike had a deep love for hunting and fishing. Time spent outdoors brought him great joy, and those who knew him understood how much he valued the traditions and discipline that came with it.
He was a voracious reader and enjoyed writing short stories and poetry. He was a poker enthusiast, always looking forward to the next local game or indulging in a little casino play, where his patience, wit and love of strategy were always on display.
“Michael will be remembered for his passion, strong presence, his voice, curiosity and the unwavering love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the generations he helped shape and the conversations he sparked around every table he sat at,” his family wrote.
At this time, the family is not planning a service, in accordance with his wishes. A celebration of life may be scheduled at a later date.
