It is with heavy hearts, reluctant acceptance and delightful memories that we bid farewell to Mike Coffman, who departed this world on February 25, 2024, after valiantly and aggressively battling the relentless forces of gravity and time with a stubborn refusal to succumb to getting old. Mike, age 85, leaves behind a collection of bemused family members, a legacy as colorful as his many stories and an impressive number of rounds of golf that never quite managed to cure his mild aversion to human interaction.

A proud patriarch, Mike leaves behind his five adoring children who, despite his best efforts to teach them the finer points of golf, 4 of the 5 managed to find other paths in life. Mark (57), Brian (56), Shelly (55), David (53), and Scott (45) will forever remember their father's unique blend of wisdom, wit, and next level snoring. Mike's disdain for crowds and social niceties was matched only by his love of his 6 grandchildren, whom he regaled with affection and support, and discussed often with immense pride to anyone who would listen.

Mike was enormously hard working throughout his long life. He loved school so much, he went to many of them, after getting kicked out of several. Mike took a break from his schooling to join the army, serving in the Philippines, Thailand, and Laos. He carried his time in the army close to his heart throughout his life, maintaining friendships, putting hot sauce on *everything*, and never forgetting those left behind. After the Army, Mike pursued a career in the airline industry, initially working for American Airlines, where he met his former wife and mother of his 5 children, Jean Coffman. While working and supporting his family, Mike returned to school to complete his college degree with four small children at home, spending many nights doing homework at the dining room table with his then grade schoolers. Mike continued to work his way up in the airline industry from a customer service agent at American Airlines, to executive Vice President positions at AirCal, Flying Tigers, and FedEx, ultimately retiring as the COO of Aloha Airlines. He brought much wisdom, sharp intuition and dedicated hard work to his efforts every day. He enjoyed awards and speaking engagements, sharing his passion and sage nuggets with great enthusiasm.  In addition to his passion for work, family, friends, travel and golf, Mike had a knack for spinning yarns that could make even the most mundane of tasks sound like a thrilling adventure.  Mike’s last few years were further brightened by many hours of conversation and travel with his companion, Wendy Brainard. 

While Mike may have departed this world, his spirit will live on in the twinkle of joy and echoes of laughter that fill the air whenever his name is mentioned. And though he may no longer be here to chase that elusive hole-in-one, we take comfort in knowing that he's probably already lining up his shot on the celestial fairways, ready to take on whatever challenges the afterlife may bring.

Rest in peace, Mike. May your drives be long, your putts be true, and your stories be never-ending. And if you happen to run into St. Peter on the first tee, just remember: a well-timed joke and a confident swing can get you out of just about anything. He *probably* doesn’t hold things against you….  

Ar dheis De go raibh a anamh dilis.