Born in Bishop, CA on August 17, 1943 to his parents Jack and Hilda Truitt. Mike grew up pretty much in Mammoth Lakes, CA with the exception of spending a few winters in southern California or Bishop, CA in his early years.
Mike attended grammar school at Hot Creek Fish Hatchery and later graduated from Lee Vining High School in 1962. He continued his education attending Yuba City College.
In May of 1964, Mike returned to Mammoth and married. They lived in Mammoth and Mike worked for Dave McCoy, at the ski resort, doing carpentry in the summer and repairing ski equipment during the ski season.
In November of 1966 Mike began his long career of 35 years with the California Division of Highway (Caltrans) by accepting a position as Maintenance Worker in Lone Pine, CA. During his career, Mike worked as an Equipment Operator in Cambria, CA and Fort Bragg, CA. Then in Tule Lake as a Lead Worker before settling in Bishop as a Maintenance Supervisor. Finally, Mike retired from Caltrans as an Administrative Officer.
During this time Mike fathered two sons, Ernie and Eric.
During his life, Mike enjoyed spending his free time country dancing, skiing, fishing, hunting, camping, training dogs and riding his favorite horse, Panda, into the back country.
Mike is survived by his son Ernie and grandson Brandon of Three Forks, MT and his son Eric of Minden, NV.