Mike T. Cordes, a beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away suddenly at his home on February 22, 2026, after a recent illness.
Born Michael Thomas Cordes on July 9, 1954, in Lansing, Michigan, he was the cherished son of Rosa and Jerome Cordes. Raised in East Lansing, Michigan, Mike's adventurous spirit led him on a journey across the United States after high school. He explored the breathtaking landscapes of California, Colorado, New Mexico and ultimately found his home in Oregon. It was here that he met Deborah Sue, the love of his life, and they were married in 1994. Their partnership was filled with love and joy until Deborah Sue’s heartbreaking passing in 2023.
Mike was a troubadour and a hippie’s hippie, with a guitar as his special gift for touching others, and his voice a powerful combination. He performed in many venues, both solo and even more joyfully, with his Blue Sky folk band, consisting of friends from Lansing, who became friends for life. He then shifted towards classical guitar, and achieved another level of skill in his musical journey. In the footsteps of many an artist, he had to find a career to support his love for music, and that led to the construction industry, from cable, to glass solariums, to Neil Kelly home renovation job bidding, and finally his own company Michael Cordes remodeling.
An avid outdoorsman, Mike found joy in nature and spent countless hours exploring its beauty. Mike's greatest joy though, came from the time he spent with his four grandchildren, whom he loved deeply.
Mike will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love for music, and the warmth he brought to the lives he touched. He leaves behind a legacy of love and treasured memories.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 192 NW 3rd Avenue, Estacada, OR 97023.
A luncheon will immediately follow the service.
Family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:00am until the start of the service at 11:00am.
Donations
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike’s memory, to either of the following charities that Mike helped and was helped by:
• Estacada Area Food Bank, PO Box 1196, Estacada, OR 97023
• St. Vincent de Paul, Estacada Food Bank Chapter, 18090 SE Langensand Road, Sandy, OR 97055