PORTLAND — Michael Dona Chretien of Westbrook died March 31, in Portland.

He was born Oct. 5, 1948, to the loving parents of Don and Violet Chretien of Bethel. Michael excelled at everything and at a young age enjoyed acting and dancing. At the age of 10, he danced on multiple occasions on WCSH6’s Youth Cavalcade, a popular variety show of the time.

He attended Gould Academy and was the president of his class where he played varsity baseball, basketball and football. His crowning athletic achievement was in the fall of 1966 when he quarterbacked the football team to a state championship. These athletic accolades pale in comparison to his highest achievement while at Gould, meeting the love of his life, Eileen Saunders.

Mike and Eileen were high school sweethearts and eventually attended the University of Maine together. They were married in 1968, and were blessed with two sons, Todd and Joel. Their 43 years of married life were filled with love, kindness, compassion and a spiritual connection that inspired those around them.

Mike was unable to continue his athletic career when his college freshman physical revealed a heart murmur that would later be called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an enlarged heart. Subsequent exams informed him there was no treatment for his disease and he would not live past the age of 30. While this news might devastate some, it inspired Mike. He was determined to spend the time he had left being the best husband and father he knew how.

Luckily new medications were developed that allowed Mike to far exceed the early prediction of an early demise to live to the ripe old age of 62. Along the way, he coached baseball from little league to varsity as well as JV and Varsity Basketball, was ‘stable husband’ for Meadow Lane Stables, started a wooden toy business, and a Voc Rehab business, received his Masters in Counseling, competed in golf leagues, and never once complained about his heart condition.

Mike had particular pride in his two sons, Todd and Joel. Todd was blessed with his father’s passion, desire and focus to help those in need. He has spent his life as an activist and writer, working tirelessly to bring attention to social injustices. He also has provided Mike with his only grandchild, Isabela. Isa calls her grandfather ’Guapo’ and always brings a smile to his face. Joel, the younger son, is blessed with his father’s kindness and compassion and works in the medical field as a physician assistant. Joel played baseball through college and Mike would routinely make the three hour drive to watch him play. He has tremendous pride in both his boys.

Mike is survived by his older brother, Randy, who was by his side during his last hours.

Mike had a long struggle with a physical heart that could not match his spiritual heart. His battle ended on March 31, in the company of friends and family. He succeeded at what he set out to do: be a good husband, father and friend. Mike wants everyone to know he is fine and not to worry about him.

To offer words of condolence, sign a guest book and share memories, go to the obituary page at www.independentdeathcare.com.