Michael J. Puma

Michael was born June 19, 1952, in Springfield, the son of Marion R. and Patricia E. Smith Puma. He married Matthew Costa on June 19, 2011 at Washington Park in Springfield, IL.

Michael graduated from Virden High School, Class of 1970, and attended Blackburn College. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois-Springfield. Michael served in the U.S. Army as a medic in Germany and was employed with Perma-Bound in Jacksonville for many years. He was a member of the Human Rights Campaign. Michael loved to read, spend time outdoors, listen to music, especially jazz, and loved to travel to New Orleans every year to attend the Jazz and Heritage Festival. Anyone who knew Michael knew him for his wit, sarcasm, love of Jazz, and his beard.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Michael is survived by his life-partner of 42 years and husband, Matthew Costa of Springfield and their dog, Crescent; sister, Patti (Lonnie) Winn; nephew, Kris (Jodi) Wood; great-nephew, Kamden M. Wood and great-niece, Karlee Westendorf all of Auburn; and several cousins.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Private Family Graveside ceremony will be held at Auburn Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Human Rights Campaign, 1640 Rhode Island Ave. N.W. Washington, DC 20036-3278.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.