Michael D. “Mike” Robertson, 79, of Richland, Washington, passed away on October 7, 2026.

Mike attended Virginia Military Institute (VMI) before beginning a distinguished career in the United States Army. He served for more than 20 years in counterintelligence and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 5. His career took him around the world, and along the way he learned to speak French. While he was stationed in Arizona, he met the love of his life, Celia, known to most as Sally. Their courtship was short. After just three dates Mike proposed, and he liked to say, “When you know, you know.” They married soon after in Arizona and shared 45 years together.

Mike and Sally moved abroad with his Army career, and along the way they welcomed their two children, Debra and Michael Jr. They loved to travel, and they held a special place in their hearts for the community they found in Belgium.

After retiring from the Army, Mike accepted a position with Battelle, and the family moved from Maryland to the Tri-Cities. They settled into civilian life in Richland and made it home.

Mike was an avid movie watcher and collector. He loved reading and flying drones, and most recently he served as a range officer, where he enjoyed target shooting. Mike was a natural storyteller. He loved sharing memories from his travels and adventures, and he was always happy to sit down and reminisce with anyone who would listen. To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as Tata.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sally; his daughter, Debra Gonzalez; and his parents. We find comfort in knowing he has been welcomed home by Sally and Debra. He is survived by his son, Michael Robertson Jr., and daughter-in-law, Heather; his son-in-law, Esteban Gonzalez; his grandchildren, Ella, Gavin, and Quinn Robertson and Danika Gonzalez; and his brothers, Mark Robertson (Linda) and Gary Robertson.

The family will hold a private ceremony in his honor.