Michael (Mike) Lee Meads was born on September 9, 1970 to Ivan Lavern Meads and Carla Jean Kaufman in Santa Maria, California. Michael passed away January 9, 2024 in Kennewick, Washington. Mike moved to Hermiston, Oregon in grade school where he was active and successful in 4-H showing horses, dogs, and livestock. Mike's love of horsemanship continued through high school where he excelled on his high school rodeo team in the team roping and calf roping events. He also had many fond memories of his years in Hermiston FFA. Mike graduated from Hermiston High School in 1989 where he developed lifelong friendships with those who always loved him unconditionally. He furthered his education at Blue Mountain Community College and was on the BMCC Rodeo Team. Mike enjoyed his years team roping and calf roping. After college he assisted the BMCC Rodeo Team for a short time and also served on the Northwest Intercollegiate Rodeo Board.
Mike cherished helping youth in agriculture and later in life followed his Mom's footsteps and became a 4-H leader for Badger Canyon Livestock 4-H Club. He adored each and every one of his members and was always ready to jump in and help. Seeing youth succeed was important to Mike. He was eager to help organize youth leadership events in agriculture whenever he was asked. Mike's successful career in the agriculture field began at McGregor, he went on to Wilbur Ellis then Pioneer Implement which was acquired by RDO Equipment in 2003. Mike has worked at RDO Equipment for 21 years where he has consistently been a top salesperson nationwide. His commitment and passion for his work were evident in the admiration of countless clients who cherished his service, as well as the colleague and customer relationships he valued so much. He took pride in being part of the RDO Equipment family for over two decades.
Above all, Mike treasured family and was never afraid to let others know how proud he was of each and every one of them. He was excited to have a son, Patrick in 1994 who also gave Mike his first grandson Grant. One year later, he met his wife Brenda on a blind date and they were married September 28, 1996 in Kennewick, WA. In 1999 his son Slade was born who inherited his love for all things equipment, buying, selling and trading. In 2002 his daughter Maci completed the family and she inherited his love for the western world and appreciation of a good vintage find. Mike was a devoted and selfless provider who dedicated his life to ensuring the well-being of his cherished family.
Mike is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Carla Jean Meads. He is survived by his wife Brenda and children Patrick (Taylor), Slade, and Maci. Father Ivan Meads, brother Marty Meads (Rona), grandson Grant Meads and his nephews and nieces.
