Michael Paul Audino

Mike was born on January 20, 1938, in Monte Vista, Colorado, to Joyce and Paul Audino. He grew up in Wheat Ridge and graduated from Wheat Ridge High School in 1956. During his time there, he lettered in basketball and was chosen by his classmates as Homecoming King. Soon after, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1957 to 1963, attaining the rank of Specialist Third Class.

After completing his active duty service, he worked with his father selling produce at Hillcrest Market and later alongside him at the Denargo Produce Market in Denver. He then went on to build a career with C.H. Robinson, a wholesale produce brokerage company. His family moved to Pittsburgh with C.H. Robinson from 1968-1973, then returned to Denver. Mike had a special appreciation for the hardworking farmers, and the fruits and vegetables they brought to market. After C.H. Robinson, he operated his own transportation brokerage company, Mike’s Transportation Service, from 1990-2012, retiring at the age of 74.

To those who knew and loved him, Mike was simply “Grandpa Beans.” He had a gift for conversation and a genuine warmth that made people feel instantly welcome—he truly never met a stranger. He was a social butterfly with an outgoing, gregarious spirit, and his home always had an open door.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: all sports, especially the Broncos; fishing with his father and sons at Montgomery Reservoir; golf and traveling with his wife; water aerobics with the “ladies”; and meeting with friends over breakfast. He had long-lasting, treasured friendships and kept in touch with many childhood friends. He loved sharing stories, laughter, and good company.

Mike was known for his playful sense of humor, adventurous spirit, and generous heart. Above all else, he loved his family. Being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather brought him great happiness. As you drove into his garage, you saw poster-size pictures of each family member framed and hanging on the walls.

A lifelong Catholic, Mike found a spiritual home at Spirit of Christ Catholic Church, where he faithfully served as an usher for several years. His faith was expressed not only in prayer but in action—working alongside Sister Molly and helping collect and distribute used clothing for migrant workers.

This month, Mike celebrated 39 years of sobriety—an achievement his family was deeply grateful for. It was a journey he approached with humility, gratitude, and determination. In place of old habits, desserts became his favorite indulgence.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Myrna Audino; his children, Michael Audino Jr., David Audino, and Gina Gore (Kevin); and his step-children, Lori Boysen (Greg) and Kelli Trotter. He was a proud grandfather to Sarah Banelli (Nick), Sophie Gore (Anna), Bailey Gore, and Isabella Gore, and a step-grandfather to Alyssa Adams (Robert), Nikki Jaime (Nicholas), Taylor Trotter (Ashleigh), and Nicolas Lombardi (Madie). He is also survived by his sisters, Regina Audino and Lynette Johnson (Frank).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joyce and Paul Audino; his brother, Bobby Audino; his granddaughter, Megan Audino; and his stepson, Tom Lombardi.

Mike was a lover of life, and will be remembered for his outgoing spirit, his jokes, his love of family and friends, and the many conversations shared over breakfast tables. His life is a reminder that kindness, humor, connection, and perseverance are among the greatest gifts we can offer one another.

The family would like to thank the caring staff at Western Hills Health Care Center and Brighton Hospice for their kind, compassionate, and loving dedicated care of “Grandpa Beans”.

Condolences may be sent to Myrna Audino, 8515 West 8th Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80215.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to La Plaza, an organization in Palisade, CO, that cultivates community for migrant workers through food, resources, and advocacy. To make a donation in Michael Audino’s honor, please visit their website www.laplazapalisade.org or use the link below.