This truly saddens me. Mike and I lived across the street from one another when we were just children, in Tannehill Trailer Park! At that time in my life, he was a tremendous friend, and we spent time together almost every day! I got to talk with him again a while back, and it meant a great deal to me. He was a part of my life I have and will always cherish. Rest easy, friend…
Michael Lee Oren
July 13, 1970 ~ May 2, 2026
Born in:
Columbus, Indiana
Resided in:
Columbus, Indiana
Michael “Flash” Lee Oren, who was born on July 13, 1970, in Columbus, Indiana, and passed away on May 2, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, will be remembered with affection for the humor, energy, and individuality he brought into the lives of those who knew him. He lived a life marked by a quick wit, a playful spirit, and a personality that left a lasting impression on friends, coworkers, and all who had the pleasure of crossing his path.
Michael spent several years working with Columbus Utilities, where he became known not only for his dedication and work ethic, but also for the lively presence he brought to the workplace. He was a prankster at heart and never missed an opportunity to lighten the mood. Whether he was tossing paper airplanes, placing rocks behind the work trucks to tease his coworkers, or letting out his unmistakable high-pitched whistle that sounded like a battery was low on the fire alarm, he had a way of keeping people on their toes. His sense of humor was one of his defining qualities, and it made him memorable to everyone around him.
Michael had a thoughtful side that was often balanced by his joking nature, and those who knew him well understood that beneath his teasing and mischief was a deeply private and personal man. He did not reveal himself easily, but when he did, it was with sincerity, intelligence, and a unique perspective that reflected his individuality. He was the kind of person who observed carefully, thought deeply, and appreciated life in his own way.
Michael was also connected to the University of Michigan, an association that reflected another part of his life and interests. He had a love for music and guitar, and these passions added richness to his character. Music was one of the ways he expressed himself, and it suited his personality well, blending creativity, rhythm, and feeling. He was someone who appreciated the simple pleasures of life, and his interests gave him joy and helped define the man he was.
In his leisure time, Michael could often be found on his motorcycle, enjoying the freedom of the open road. That image suited him well, as he valued independence and lived with a spirit that was both adventurous and unmistakably his own. He had a way of making ordinary moments feel memorable, and his presence often brought laughter and energy wherever he went. He was funny, and that humor was not merely a trait, but a gift he shared generously with others.
Michael will be remembered for his teasing nature, his great sense of humor, and the unmistakable whistle that so many came to recognize. He was a real character in the best sense of the word, someone whose personality filled a room and whose antics became part of the stories people told long after the moment had passed. His coworkers and friends knew him as someone who could be counted on to bring a smile, even if it came with a little mischief attached.
Services for Mike will be held at 7:00 pm Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Jewell Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory with Pastor Mike Newlin officiating. Friends may call from 4:00 pm until service time at 7:00 pm.
Mike is survived by his children, Kaitlyn Oren, Ashley Brewster, Stephanie Oren, Austin Oren, and Joshua Heid; grandchildren, Jase and Lexi Dooley; close friends, Christina (Carlos) Amezcua and Roger McQeary.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make memorial donations to the family to help the last child living at home with Mike finish her last year of college.
Services
Calling Hours:
Saturday, May 9, 2026
4:00 pm
Jewell ~ Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory
3855 25th St
Columbus, IN 47203
(812) 372-9923
Add to My Calendar
America/Indiana/Indianapolis
2026-05-09 16:00:00
2026-05-09 16:00:00
MichaelLee OrenCalling Hours
Calling Hours
3855 25th St,Columbus, IN 47203
Funeral Service:
Saturday, May 9, 2026
7:00 pm
Jewell ~ Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory
3855 25th St
Columbus, IN 47203
(812) 372-9923
Add to My Calendar
America/Indiana/Indianapolis
2026-05-09 19:00:00
2026-05-09 19:00:00
MichaelLee OrenFuneral Service
Funeral Service
3855 25th St,Columbus, IN 47203
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