Michael Francis Doherty, 73, of Heppner, Oregon, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026. Mike was born on May 28, 1953, to James Paul Doherty and Margorie ‘Lewis’ Doherty in Heppner, Oregon. He attended grade school and high school in Heppner, Oregon.

Mike met the love of his life, Cynthia Martin Doherty, from Ione, and they were married in Condon at the United Methodist Church on May 24, 1975. They had two sons, Chad and Adam, and a daughter, Kylie.

Mike worked for Kinzua Mill in Heppner, Oregon, until it closed in 1996. After it closed, he worked at Pioneer Memorial Hospital as a maintenance employee. Finally, he spent his last years working for the Morrow County School District as head custodian until he retired in 2016. He was loved at every job and could often be seen walking the halls with a smile, ready to take on any task he was given.

Mike will be remembered for his infectious smile, his ability to make everyone feel welcome, his strong work ethic, the many friendships he built throughout his life, and the nicknames he earned, including "Magic."

Mike enjoyed cutting wood, mushroom picking, and family barbecues. He also loved music and could often be found listening to his favorite songs or sharing them with others. Most of all, he loved spending time at Willow Creek Country Club, where he often played golf for hours with his best friend, Kelly Fox. Mike and Kelly were always welcoming others to join their group, often greeting them with a cold beer. And if the golf was going particularly well, the famous "birdie bottle" might even make an appearance.

Mike is survived by his wife, Cindi; children Chad (Alicia) Doherty, Adam Doherty, and Kylie (Kyle) Simpkins; mother-in-law Ione Martin; and grandchildren Bridget Wizner, Lylian Doherty, and Malcolm Simpkins. He was preceded in death by his father, Paul; mother, Marjorie; father-in-law, Jerry Martin; and granddaughter, Delanie Doherty.

The Celebration of Life will be September 19th at 1:00 pm at the Heppner Elks Lodge. Please wear a shirt from your favorite band or something music-related to honor Mike and his love for music. Instead of flowers, please donate to either the Heppner Elks Lodge or the Willow Creek Country Club in his name.

Sweeney Payton Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please leave your condolence messages for the family at sweeneypaytonmortuary.com.