Michael John Qualls' Obituary
Michael "Mike" John Qualls, 73, of Bixby, passed away on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he passed away surrounded by the love of his family.
Born September 28, 1952, Mike was the son of Henry and Margaret (Dwardy) Qualls. He grew up in East Chicago, Indiana, where he came of age as a standout multi-sport athlete at Roosevelt High School. A linebacker on the football field and equally at home on the basketball court and baseball diamond, he graduated with the Class of 1970.
Mike's larger-than-life smile was matched only by the size of his heart. For more than 30 years, he worked as a skilled welder and pipe fitter at Inland Steel, where he earned the respect of coworkers and friends through his hard work, loyalty, and willingness to help anyone in need. He was a man who took pride in honest, hard work and in the craftsman's tradition of doing a job right.
Outside of work, Mike found joy in the simple things he loved most. He was an avid golfer, a passionate and devoted fan of the Miami Dolphins, and a loyal supporter of all things LSU, and all things purple - the color of his beloved Tigers. Whether cheering on his teams, talking sports with friends, or enjoying a day on the golf course, Mike never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone.
Above all else, Mike's greatest pride was his family. He was a loving father and grandfather, a steady presence, and a friend to all who knew him. Most especially, he cherished his wife of 25 years, Julie, whose story started with a blind date at a Chicago Bulls game, and who faithfully and lovingly stood by his side through every trial, illness, and triumph. Their bond was a true testament to love, devotion, and partnership.
Mike will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, his resilience, and the way he made people feel welcome and valued. He was a man who always put others before himself, and whose love for those closest to him only deepened with time, especially his love for Julie. Throughout the years, Mike endured chronic pain in his knees and neck, multiple surgeries, and numerous cancer treatments, yet he faced every setback with determination and courage. He was always willing to fight - to battle through pain, to take on treatments head-on, and to keep moving forward with the strength and love of his family guiding him every step of the way. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through friendship, family, and love.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Julia; his daughter Courtney (Gabe) Cabrera and Julia's daughters, Angela (George) Darkow, Lauren (Darrel) Smith, and nine cherished grandchildren, Hunter (wife Alexis), Lillian, Payton, Charlie, Olivia, Gabriel, Graham, and Evan. He was preceded in death by his parents.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. Details will be announced when available.
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