Michael “Mike” Kouche, was born April 10, 1948 in New Eagle, Pennsylvania to Clarence and Susan Kouche. Mike grew up in Miama, Florida and graduated with an MBA from the University of Miama in 1971. He enjoyed golf, fishing, horseracing, and anything about aviation.
As a licensed private pilot, Mike piloted small aircraft cross country and in 1975 began piloting sailplanes at the Estrella mountains in Arizona; gliding on thermals from the desert floor. From these experiences, he grew to love Arizona, and in 1981 permanently relocated to Phoenix.
Mike held a long career as a marketing professional and consultant. He was able to travel all over the country in positions he held with Burger King, Swensens, PFM-Compass Group, and Schwans. He was also an adjunct professor at the University of Phoenix and held instructor positions at Ottawa University and Phoenix Community College.
Mike Kouche died at the age of 62 on April 3, 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona from an acute myocardial infarction. He is survived by his wife Sheryl and step-sons Tim Warnock and Michael Warnock, sisters Margaret Woodmore and Susan Elliott.
An excerpt from his Pilot’s Log Book:
On August 21, 1982 I traveled to Miami. I took Dad for a ride out to the Gulf Stream in a Cessna 152 to spread Mom’s ashes. We departed Tamiami Airport and flew out to the Fowey Rock Lighthouse which marked the edge of the Gulf Stream. That is where her ashes mixed with the dark blue water. From there they would travel north along the east coast of the United States on to England to continue their eternal journey around the world.