Born February 22, 1954, to the late Rosemarie and Henry Perry of Greenwood Village Colorado, Mike grew up exploring the rural banks of Little Dry Creek and the Highline Canal. Mike attended Denver Country Day School and went on to receive a degree in Finance from the University of Colorado, Leeds School of Business.
Mike received his pilot’s license before he was old enough to drive a car. At the age of 14 he completed his first airplane solo and never looked back. His love of aviation carried him on to a four decade professional career as a commercial airline captain. This busy life took him to all reaches of the globe and fulfilled his passion for exploration and adventure. On Mike’s last flight, in 2016, he flew the Boing 787 Dreamliner on its first flight from Denver to Tokyo, a fitting end to a long, safe and successful career.
Mike was true and loyal to his family and friends. His infectious smile, good humor (with an inclination toward mischief) made him a delight to be with. Drawn to adventure, Mike loved sailing, scuba diving, fly fishing, music, painting, his dogs, cigars and a strong margarita. More recently, his involvement in the Texas Convention of States kept him politically engaged and ready for a lively debate.
Mike is survived by his wife Kathleen Perry, his brother Mark Perry, his wife Gretchen, and their children Clayton and Kiersten Perry, his sister Ann Strazza, her husband Craig, and their children Henry Strazza (Alyssa and son Jack), William Strazza and Elizabeth Strazza, cousins Elena and Tony Daugherty and their children Fares and Elena.
During Mike’s unfortunate battle with a terminal lung disease he bravely taught us how to live fully, and how to die with strength, grace and dignity.
Blue skies and tailwinds Turk. You will be missed.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Air and Space Museum Denver, Colorado ( https://wingsmuseum.org/give/ ). In light of the COVID-19 situation a memorial service will be held at a future date.
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