VANCOUVER — Michael Gordon Ryba, 67, passed away while surrounded by family and loved ones on Nov. 17, 2106. Born April 8, 1949, in Vancouver to Gordon and Neoma Ryba, he and his loving wife, Kathy, have maintained dual residences in Brush Prairie and Long Beach, Wash.

Mike was born to fish and lived for his next big catch. He was a life-long salmon and sport fisherman and passionate storyteller, often leading you to believe it was the biggest fish ever recorded being caught. “Ryba’ism — Sometimes you will never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory: Fish On!”

As a retired shipwright, Mike enjoyed building and working with his hands. He was a lifetime member of the Elks and loved spending time with family and friends.

Mike was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Mike is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughter, Heather (Paul) Nadeau; son, Mike (Doria) Ryba; sister, Linda Koplin; four grandchildren, Katey, Brandon, Ryan and Rohan; and many more loving family members and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved daughter, Dawn.

A local service will be held at the Long Beach Elks Lodge, 110 Pacific Avenue on Dec. 10 at 4 p.m.