Michael "Mich" Ray Dershem, 65, of Yale, Oklahoma, passed away on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at his home surrounded by loved ones.

In the warm embrace of Yale, Oklahoma, under the tender watch of our Heavenly Father, the soul of Michael Ray Dershem, affectionately known as Mich, was called to eternal rest on December 12, 2024. Born in El Dorado, Kansas, on November 22, 1959, Mich's journey began with the love and guidance of his parents, Eldon and Jean Dershem, and his cherished grandparents, who preceded him in death.

Mich's life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and fellowship. He shared a beautiful and loving marriage with his wife, Sandy Dershem, and together they raised a family that was his pride and joy. His legacy continues through his son, Warfield Dershem and his wife Shannon of Stillwater, OK; his daughters, LeeDonna Blackowl-Justice and her husband Martin, of Stillwater, OK, and Shanetelly Staton and her husband Kelly of Owasso, OK. Mich's brothers, Myles Dershem and his wife Lisa of Nash, OK; Monty Dershem of Kansas City, KS; and Michelle Dershem of Midwest City, OK, remember him with fondness and deep affection. His grandchildren, Corbin Hopkins, Evan Hopkins, Olivia Staton, Owen Staton, Sunni Justice, Ben Dershem, Abigail Dershem, and Hannah Dershem, will carry forward his spirit of joy and love.

Mich's life was richly woven with the threads of education and service. He graduated from Jet-Nash High School in 1977 and from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in 1981 with a degree in Teaching, majoring in History. His work history is a reflection of his steadfast commitment to the youth and his community. Through the sweat of his brow, he hauled hay and tended to farms during his high school years. He began his early experience in Youth Ministry at Bethel Hawley Baptist Church at the age of 16. His calling to ministry was evident early on, as he served as Youth Minister at Yale First Baptist Church during the summers of 1980 and 1981. His dedication was unwavering as he transitioned to a full-time role, and in November 2009, he embraced the role of Associate Pastor at Fellowship Baptist Church of Yale. For 45 years, Mich's pastoral leadership and service were cornerstones of the church, guiding countless mission trips, retreats, and youth camps with a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.

Mich was a pillar in the Southern Baptist community, actively participating in the Cimarron Baptist Association and serving on the Oklahoma Baptists Historical Commission. His influence and leadership extended far beyond the walls of his own church, touching lives and inspiring faith across the state.

In his latest days, Mich poured his passion into the Fellowship Baptist Building Program, fervently working to see the new church building completed. His earnest desire to preach within those new walls was a dream he held close to his heart. Though this was a goal he left unfulfilled on Earth, we take comfort in knowing he is now preaching in the grandest sanctuary of all, alongside the angels in Heaven.

Mich's life was marked by an infectious sense of humor, a faith that moved mountains, and a selflessness that knew no bounds. He lived to serve, to laugh, and to uplift those around him, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a servant of God.

Today, as we reflect on the life of Michael Ray Dershem, we celebrate a man who was more than just a pastor; he was a beacon of light in our community, a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a true friend to all who had the pleasure of crossing his path. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories we share, the lessons he taught us, and the love he spread so generously.

Mich leaves behind not only a family but an entire community of friends, church members, and fellow ministers who will forever feel the impact of his kind and generous spirit. We are comforted by the knowledge that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, as we hold on to the promise of a joyful reunion in the presence of our Lord and Savior.

Brothers and sisters, let us rejoice in the life of Michael Ray Dershem, a true servant of God, whose journey on this side of Heaven has ended, but whose story will continue to be told for generations to come. Amen.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor Mich by providing memorial gifts to funding the construction of his church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Fellowship Baptist Church in Yale. Funeral services will begin at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Homer Ray Gymnasium in Yale. Interment will follow in Hawley Cemetery in Nash, Oklahoma.