PORTLAND – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Michael Erskine Ehringhaus Ph.D., 76, on April 30, 2023, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House. Michael had been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in 2020, and he experienced a rapid decline in early 2023 as a result of multiple strokes.

Michael was born on May 11, 1946, in Charlotte, N.C. In 1971, he graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Fueled by his passion for teaching, Michael began his career at a one-room schoolhouse on Ocracoke Island, working alongside his former wife, Ann Ehringhaus.

Michael earned his master’s degree in Education from UNC-Charlotte. After completing a fellowship, he continued his studies at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, where he met Carolyn, who later became his wife. After receiving a Certificate of Advanced Study in 1977, he and Carolyn taught in a Maori community in New Zealand. Their travels continued to Alaska, where Michael and Carolyn devoted their efforts to developing adult basic educational services within the Alaskan interior.

In 1986, Michael and Carolyn left Alaska for doctoral study at Syracuse University. While working at Educational Testing Services in New Jersey, in 1993, Michael and Carolyn had their first and only child, Justin. The family eventually settled in Portland, from where Michael commuted to his job at Measured Progress in New Hampshire, before retiring in 2010.

Michael’s keen wit and playful nature endeared him to friends and family alike. A dynamic presence, he was someone not easily forgotten. He loved music; in his final months, he spent hours online watching live performances as attending live music was no longer possible. An accomplished photographer, Michael dedicated his time over the past few years to refining images captured during his more active years. (See https://ehringhausphotography.weebly.com)

Michael was predeceased by his sister, Carroll Niles.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his son, Justin; his furry companions Nukka, Kumi, and Kiera; and his brother, Charles Odell of North Carolina. He was buried at Cedar Brooks, a green cemetery in Limington.

The family thanks the Portland Fire Department for being so gracious when called for lift assists and the Dempsey Center for their cancer support groups. We are especially grateful to Hospice of Southern Maine (and its Gosnell Memorial Hospice House) for the compassionate care he received during his final weeks.

In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to either of the latter two organizations.