My memories of Mike go back almost 40 years. Growing up he was a strong presence in my life as Michele and I spent a lot of time together. I remember him as a kind, loving father who was also a lot of fun to be around. He always wanted to take care of everyone. I remember pool parties at their house and how he used to tease Michele and me about our boyfriends. I remember how much love and thought went into Michele's 16th birthday present. Boy, was I jealous of that Mustang! Mike and Karen's love story is one I tell my friends about. How amazing to be together from such a young age and make it through all that they did. "Pops" as I called Mike remains in my heart and will forever be remembered this way.

I am deeply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He was a wonderful person and great friend. Our best wishes to Karen and family. 

Sorry to hear about Mike, He and I served together with the Red Eagles and was a wonderful person. 
Bob Mooney
Red Eagle firefighter

Karen  Mike was a very generous man as you know and it was a pleasure serving with him in the Red Eagles. I said a prayer for him on Friday but could not attend. A family matter had me in San Diego. God will see you through time ahead of you.

I served with Mike when I was with the Red Eagles (1984-1986). My Red Eagle nickname "Puppy" was given to me by him. I'll always remember that. Miss you Mike.

Karen and family I was saddened to hear of Mike's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I attended the memorial and brought my last Red Eagle patch for him and will treasure the classic golf ball. My never ending condolences for Michael's family and friends. I took over his 4477th  as he left and closed the operations

Dear Karen, I was so sorry to hear about Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with you. 

Karen and family, I'm so sorry to hear of Mike's passing.  I became a Red Eagle maintainer in June of 1984 and Mike was one of the first Red Eagles I got to know and work with.  It didn't take long to realize, "If Mike couldn't get it - it couldn't be got." RIP.

Mike was a great friend to Bob and I. He will be greatly missed

Karen and family, I'm giving you my deepest sympathy on the loss of a friend, Brother Thunderbird, Brother Red Eagle. Great man, devoted to his country!RIP Mike!

We played many poker games in the lovely TTR Mancamp. Our prayers and sympathy go out to Mike's family.

Mike was a great guy and brother Red Eagle. Many an hour with him searching for parts for Red Eagle Jets in the warehouse at TTR was always experience. My condolences to his family and rest in peace Mike. Brad Fisher (Yuba City, CA)

Godspeed Mike was an honor working with you God must have needed a supply guy

May God and his saving grace help you through this most difficult time in your life.
I worked with Mike when he was assigned to the Red Eagles. He always seemed very happy with his work and was always up for a challenge no mater what the job might be. Our deepest sympathies for you and your family.

Mike you're a brother-in-law to me but actually you were my brother.

Karen
sorry to hear about mike, he was a great guy liked him a lot. we will pray for you and your family
Ike Crawley

Uncle Mike
I'm so proud to have called you my Uncle.  You and Karen lived a life of excellence and you always inspired me to strive for the same. Never to settle for average, be the best you can be and to live a life of character.  You were the "Cool" Uncle that everyone wanted to be like.  Smooth like Slick, so intelligent, a man who loved his family, had amazing funny wit and someone that made you want to be around them.  You ALWAYS made me feel special  amongst the crowd of siblings I had and that I mattered. Mom was so proud to have you for a brother and loved you so very much. You were Dad's best friend and like a brother to him.  You and Karen were their "people" and I want to thank you and Karen for that.  Some of my fondest memories of our family were being in the room while you, Karen, Dad, Mom, Nonnie, Slick, Uncle Jerry were playing liverpool rummy. So much laughter and fun you had.  That was really cool to witness. Know that I loved you very much and thought of you and your family all the time. Thank you for waiting for Dad and coming to get him.  It's comforting and fitting for me to know you are all together.  Karen and Shelly, my heart is with you and know that you are loved beyond measure.

Mike and I were friends when we served together with the Red Eagles. I remember tuning the twin carbs on his Corvair for him as well as many evening at the site playing poker. A good guy and a good friend. R.I.P. Mike.

Mike and I were on the Thunderbird Team at the same time. I enjoyed the time we served together at Nellis AFB and while on the road. Lana and I were saddened to hear of his passing and thankful he is in no more pain. RIP Brother Bird and thank you for your service to our Country. Prayers for the family.

Karen and family, I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am I've lost a friend,my roomie and a fellow Thunderbird. I know he is at peace and hope he is on Gods golf course. Rest in peace my friend.

OBITUARY

Michael J. Cleveland

April 27, 1945 – April 8, 2017

Palm Eastern Mortuary & Cemetery

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