Former Downey police officer Michael Westray passes away

Michael Anthony Westray, 77, of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho passed away April 27 at the Schneidmiller House in Coeur d’ Alene surrounded by family and friends.

Mike, as everyone called him, was born to Vernon and Mary Alice Westray on Sept. 6, 1939 in Los Angeles. After graduating from South Gate High School, he joined the United States Navy and served his country for six years.

Upon completion of his engagement in the military, he became a police officer for the City of Downey and retired after 38 years of service.

Mike met Barbara Wade on Nov. 23, 1973 while working as a police officer. They were later married Feb. 21, 1976 in Hollydale. Together they lived in Downey where they raised their family. 

After retirement, Mike moved to north Idaho in 2004, settling in Coeur d’ Alene. He became a volunteer for the Coeur d’ Alene Police Department. 

In his younger years Mike enjoyed playing football, as well as speed skating, and riding dirt bikes. He was a member of the Huntington Park Jaycees, Bodie Chapter E Clampus Vitus, NRA, PORAC, and the OWLS.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years Barbara; two sons Matthew (Alice) Westray of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, Donald (Karleen) Wade of Vista Murrieta Calif.; one daughter Michelle (Timothy) Lipa of Coeur d' Alene; brother Peter (Linda) Westray of California; 10 grandchildren, Shelby and Jack Westray, Alyson, Mitchell, Derek, Devon Wade, Hannah Levinson-Lipa, Timothy, Morgan, Isabella Lipa; two nephews, , Richard (Kristina) Wade, and Ryan (Jennifer) Wade; two nieces, Laura Westray, and Melissa Westray-Olsen; four great-nieces, Rebecca, Victoria, Madison, and Riley; four great-nephews, William, Tyler, Jameson, and Charles; brother-in-law Richard (Arlene) Wade; sister-in-law Rosemarie Wade; and his mother-in-law Jeanette Wade.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and son, Timothy Westray.

A celebration of life will be held Friday June 23, at 6 p.m.. at the Downey Elks Lodge.

The family suggests that memorials may be made to Downey Police Officers' Association at dpoa.org and Fire Memorial Foundation P.O. Box 1748 Hayden, Idaho 83835. Or you can also donate to Gifts From Riley foundation, please visit www.giftsfromriley.org, and get more information regarding Mike's great-niece Riley.