Michael G Arra
Jan 18, 1994 - May 4, 2016
Posted by: Jo Aguirre

http://www.havenbrookfuneralhome.com

Michael was born January 18, 1994 in Quito, Ecuador, youngest son of Mark & Ann Arra. He has two older brothers, Tommy and Stephen. He spent the first eight months of his life in tropical Cumbaya, Ecuador. The next twelve years were spent in Irving, Texas. Michael attended preschool at St Therese Academy, four years at St Luke’s Catholic school and six years at North Hills Charter School before moving to Oklahoma and attending Norman North High School.

Growing up in Texas allowed Michael and his brothers to spend weekends at their grandmother’s farm, vineyard and winery in Pittsburg, Texas. Under her guidance, he learned to tend the vineyard, drive a tractor, and fish. Michael had a passion for working hard and a love of the outdoors. There were year-round activities at the winery for three strong boys with pruning, picking, crushing, pressing and bottling wine.

After high school Michael was ready for something new and moved to Phoenix, Arizona to live with his brother, Tommy. While living in Arizona, Michael discovered his passion for hospitality by working at the Renaissance Hotel and the Arizona Biltmore. After working a few years, he decided to follow in the footsteps of his Uncle Scott and pursue a career in hotel management. Michael moved to Stillwater and attended OSU, majoring in Hospitality and Restaurant Management.

In recent months Michael took a semester off from college and renewed his passion for farming and the outdoors after the family purchased two dairy goats, Anna and Bella. Michael had a love for animals, especially for his constant companion golden lab, Molly. Determined to improve the family’s land, he built fences, planted pecan trees, and created nature trails for others to enjoy.

Michael will be remembered for his giving spirit and natural inclination to service for others. He was quick with a smile and adored by anyone he met. His presence was always made known through his outgoing personality. He had a special ability to warm the hearts of children and the elderly. He would readily recognize and act on one’s needs without hesitation. Michael never met a stranger and his legacy will live on through all the people he has touched.

Rosary & Vigil Service for Michael will be on Monday, May 2, 2016, 7 p.m. at St. Thomas More University Parish and Mass of the Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, May 3, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More University Parish with under the direction of Havenbrook Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.havenbrookfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to “Countless Orphans in Wake of Ecuador’s 7.8 Earthquake.”… https://www.youcaring.com/humanitarian-project-amor-7-8-559943