Michael Peter Kier

August 10, 1951 - December 09, 2018

Obituary

Michael Peter Kier, 67, of Tulsa, OK passed away on Sunday, December 9, 2018 in his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born in Iowa City, Iowa on August 10, 1951 to Lawrence and Jerry (Palmer) Kier. He grew up in Denver, Colorado and graduated from the University of Tulsa in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in urban studies.

Mike dedicated his career to the City of Tulsa beginning with college internships in the early 1970’s.  He became a full-time city employee in the budget department in 1975.  In 1993 he was promoted to Finance Director.   During his 43 years with the city he served 10 mayors.  He was widely recognized for his professional expertise and also for serving as a mentor and friend to many city employees.  In 2018 Mayor G. T. Bynum recognized Mike’s exemplary service by designating the highest Tulsa city employee award as the “Michael P. Kier Tulsa Blue Award for Public Service Excellence.”

Outside of work, Mike was cherished by family and friends for his generosity and kindness.  He also developed a decades-long passion for sailing, which he enjoyed primarily at the Grand Lake of the Cherokees.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, great-nephew Kendall Kier, sister-in-law Kathi Kier, and mother-in-law Dorotha Dillion.  He is survived by his wife Theresa Dillion, step-mother Joan of Denver, CO, brother Larry of St. Louis, MO, sister Holly Lana and her husband Mark of Denver, CO , step brother Chuck, step sister Jody Hurtado, and a host of nephews, nieces, and great nephews and great nieces.

A memorial service will be held on January 19, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Temple Assembly of God church, 4701 W Edison St, Tulsa, OK 74127.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the United Way or to the charity of your choice in Mike’s memory.

Memorial Service

  • Date & Time: January 19, 2019 (11:00 AM)
  • Venue: Calvary Temple Assembly of God Church
  • Location: 4701 W. Edison St. Tulsa, OK 74127 - (Get Directions)

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10 responses to Michael Peter Kier

  1. Uncle Mike is already missed greatly. His comedic talent was a gift. With a solid sense of self and adventure we were lucky to experience many places, landscapes, and natural spaces with him. My sister Keri and I looked forward to seeing him and Terri throughout our lives. We may not have had grandparents, but our Uncle Mike made us feel the love. Uncle Mike and Aunt Terri have given us the joy of family. They helped welcome my husband into this family and have been regularly reliable sources of love and strength for my family. Mike was more influential in my mothers childhood than any brother should need, but he rose to the occasion. Only with the loss of him, has his presence become so clear. Miss you forever Mike!

  2. What fond memories we recall because we knew Mike as a friend. Whether we were sailing with Terri, with Mike resting a skilled hand on the tiller, or listening to his wit as we trashed (deservedly) a lame movie plot, he was a fun personality with deep insight. We're saddened that he left far too soon. RIP, Mike.

  3. Tom Sims says:

    I had the pleasure of working with Mike at the City of Tulsa between 1974 and 1978. He was mature beyond his years, highly competent, and liked by all. He will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts are with Terri and the rest of Mike's family.

  4. So sorry to hear of Mikes passing, my thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family. I had the privilege of getting to know Mike when I served on the Tulsa City Council. He was a consummate professional and one who I, and many others, relied upon greatly when navigating the issues of the City. I expect his absence will be a huge void to fill in many respects. Robert Gardner

  5. With so many fine memories of Mike we forever be grateful for having known him. We spent many hours with him sailing on Grand Lake and in the BVI. Will always remember the July 4th festivities from the deck on Duck Creek. How very proud of him we are for the accolades bestowed upon him by the City of Tulsa. He will surely be missed by the whole area.

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