Michael Eliot Sturges of Barboursville, Virginia, died at home on Wednesday, August 8, 2012 surrounded by his loving family. Facing colon cancer with dignity and faith, Michael remained active and fully engaged in his church, profession and family life until recent weeks.   

Born on January 22, 1958 in Los Angeles, California to the late John and Dorothy Sturges, Michael was raised in the film industry. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1981.

Michael’s professional career included working as an assistant director, a stockbroker and a writer.  Employed at the University of Virginia in various capacities since 1996, he worked the last five years in the position of Technology Planning Coordinator and earning the respect and admiration of many of his colleagues.             

Above all else, Michael’s biggest passion was his family. His free time was spent with them in various ways: tossing balls around, coaching teams, cheering at soccer games and swim meets, attending Father/Daughter dances, bringing his children to church each Sunday. Michael thoroughly enjoyed spending time with youth and served as a youth leader at Church of Our Saviour Episcopal Church. His legacy is one of faith, hope and love in good times and in bad.

Michael is survived by his wife, Kathleen, his children, Matthew, David and Anna; a daughter by a previous marriage, Kelly Sturges; his sister, Deborah Wyle; his mother-in-law, Kathryn McAuliffe; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Donna McAuliffe.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 on August 15, 2012 at Church of Our Saviour.  The committal will follow in the church cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Church of Our Saviour, 1165 E. Rio Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22901 or to Hospice of the Piedmont, 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 300, Charlottesville, VA 22902.