Michael Frederick Bailey, Sr.

Michael Frederick Bailey Sr. (Mike), 72, of Grand Junction, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on December 22, 2025.

Mike was born to Delores Gardiner on March 3 rd 1953 in Grand Junction. Mike’s biological father passed away in an industrial accident when he was an infant. His mother later married and Mike was jointly raised by Estle (Buck) Bailey. Buck was such a large part of Mike’s life that his did not realize that he was his stepfather until he was 16 years old applying for his driver’s license. To Mike this did not matter as he always seen Buck simply as dad.

Mike worked several jobs as a teen, but working on a ranch in Fruita left the largest mark on Mike’s work ethic. This is where he learned to work and play hard.

Mike was fiercely independent and left school and home to marry the love of his life, Debbie Ingram. Mike met Debbie where most teens of the day spent their weekends, cruising North Ave. They married on May 1 st 1970. Their first child, Micheal Jr was born in 1971 and this was the start of their large family.

In the 1970’s Mike started working with his brother Rocky on a work-over rig. The shift to working in the oil field for Mike began a life long career that led to many triumphs and life lessons. Mike rode the oil exploration boom that western Colorado experienced in the 1970’s and early 1980’s. When the oil field work dried up Mike went to work with his father-in-law at Holsum Bakery. Mike worked hard and eventually became a production supervisor. When baking operations were shifted to Denver, Mike chose to stay in Grand Junction with his family.

Opportunity came knocking and Mike was offered a driller position with Nabors drilling. He worked hard and eventually became superintendent for several states before retiring. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to provide for his family. He was married to his beloved wife Debbie for 54 years before her passing last year. He was a proud father of seven children, and the many more that lived under his roof.

Mike had a love for nature, hunting, motorsports, and cinema. He was known to quote movies like Tombstone and Dances with Wolves.

He is survived by his children: Michael (Jennifer) Bailey jr. , Christopher (Audrey) Bailey, William (Sam) Bailey, Crystal (Mark) Meyer, and Jody (Katie) Bailey, along with his grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family.

He shared a special bond with his son-in-law, Mark whom he spent countless hours with later in life. Mark and Crystal proved Mike with loving care during his final years of his life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Debbie Bailey, his son Justin Bailey, and his daughter Cynthia Bailey.