Michelle JoAnn Gorges, known affectionately as Michelle, entered this world on August 13, 1967, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, born to the late Ernest Thomas Stewart and Barbara JoAnn (Eberhardt) Stewart. She departed from our lives on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Select Specialty Hospital, Tulsa, at the age of 56, reuniting with her beloved parents.

Michelle's journey through life was marked by profound dedication, kindness, and a passion for the pursuit of knowledge. She graduated from Valley Center High School, paving the way for a remarkable career that touched the lives of many. Michelle attended Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, from 1985 to 1990, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.

In 1988, Michelle commenced her professional journey with the City of Wichita as an Emergency Communications 911 dispatcher. Her commitment to public service was evident from the outset. In 1990, she transitioned to the Wichita Police Department, where she began her career as a Police Chemist, specializing in Drug Chemistry. Over the years, Michelle's expertise expanded, and in 1999, she became a Forensic Examiner, contributing significantly to the field of forensic science.

In 2007, Michelle embraced a new chapter, joining the Tulsa Police Department as a Forensic Technical Leader-Latent Prints for the Forensic Laboratory. Her work brought her recognition, even featuring on the First 48 in Tulsa. Michelle's dedication extended beyond her work, as she served as the Secretary of the Oklahoma Division of the International Association for Identification from 2010 to 2015, and as a Board Member from 2009 to 2010. She remained an active member of the Oklahoma Division of the International Association for Identification from 2008 to the present and the International Association for Identification from 2000 until her passing.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Michelle's love for animals was boundless. From her donkey, "Nester," to her beloved labrador dogs, she rescued and cared for creatures great and small. Her yard became a haven for cardinals, drawn by her generous spirit of feeding the birds.

Michelle's private moments were cherished, as she enjoyed watching her DVD movies and shared weekly dinners with close friends. Described as kind, considerate, loyal, and occasionally stubborn, Michelle was a good person who consistently went out of her way to help others.

Michelle is survived by her brother, Ernest Thomas Stewart, Jr. of Floresville, Texas, and a multitude of dear friends who will carry her memory in their hearts. She will be laid to rest at Resthaven Memory Gardens in Wichita, Kansas, with her beloved mother.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Second Chance Farm in Michelle's honor, perpetuating her legacy of compassion and care for animals. Second Chance Farm, P.O. Box 1085, Granbury, TX 76048, www.secondchancefarmgranbury.org , or Venmo, Second Chance Farm, @scftx .

As we say our goodbyes, let us celebrate the life of Michelle Joann Gorges, a woman whose impact on the world will forever be remembered. May she rest in eternal peace.