Michael J Storey, 78 Passed away at his home in Saranac Lake on October 14, 2021 with his wife and son at his side.
He was born in Jamestown, NY in 1942 to Charles and Imelda Storey and spent most of his childhood in Hambrug, NY.
He graduated from The College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University 1966 with a BS in Forestry and later received his Masters degree in environmental communications at ESF. After graduation he worked as a national park ranger for 2 years at Yellowstone National park, Grand Canyon and the Everglades. Returning to the Syracuse area in 1969, He became the director of Beaver Lake nature center in Baldwinsville, NY. In 1977, being lovers of the Adirondacks, he and his family moved to Saranac Lake where he became the naturalist for the APA. Where he worked for 24 years. He was instrumental in the planning and development of the visitors information center (VIC) at Pauls Smith. He also worked on designing the trail systems and all of the signs and publications for there. He was the educator for all at the visitor center. After he retired in 2001, he set up his own consulting business creating interpretive signs, leaflets and trails for several parks in NY and VT.
He also has written two books, Heartland a natural history of Onondaga County and Why the Adirondacks look the way the do A natural history.
Mike was also a man of many talents, he was an accomplished artist and photographer of natural landscapes. He was an avid outdoors man who loved hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing with his family and friends. Also he was a lifelong advocate for the environment. Belonging and working with several environmental organizations. He was a kind loving man, who was a devoted father to his son Tom and passed on his love for the outdoors and nature.
He is survived by his wife Joan Storey and his son Thomas Storey. His brother David (Paula) Storey. Three nieces Kate, Debora and Marina. Two grandchildren Ashton Storey and Shayla Rivers.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. At Michael's request there will be no funeral services. Friends wishing to remember Michael are asked to donate to The Paul Smiths Visitor Center 8023 State Route 30, Paul Smiths, NY 12970. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.