Michael Lee Ivins
August 23, 1952 to November 15, 2019
From Omaha, NE to the world
The aviation spark was born in 1969 when Mike enlisted in the Marine Corp. Being a Crew Chief on the CH46’s during the Vietnam era he flew many, many missions. He experienced the best of things and the absolute worst.
Entering civilian life in 1976, Mike worked toward his A&P license which he obtained in 1977. Very determined to succeed, multiple maintenance and inspection courses and engine training followed.
Mike wore many hats throughout his 48-year aviation career – from repairman and technician to director and owner/consultant.
Mike could diagnose an issue just by listening to an engine or watching a small video over a cell phone.
On a side note, one couldn’t forget about the cars; the flashy, fast and furious Mopars. The best and the wickedest. Mike appreciated the throaty rumble of a supercharged engine.
Mike was a fighter, having survived his first bout of cancer several years earlier. He never gave up and was determined to give it his all. His slogan throughout his life: “I’d rather be lucky than good”.
Mike was a loyal friend and a mentor to many. He touched a multitude of lives around the globe.
Have a safe flight and rest easy. You will be greatly missed.
A memorial service with military honors will be held on Monday December 9, 2019 at 2:30 p.m. at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix, 23029 Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85024.
In lieu of flowers the family would like for donations to be made in Michael’s memory to The Gary Sinise Foundation and The Semper Fi Fund
Mike a great boss excellent friend when you need it it was there for you he helped many many people that I know you count with him all the time we miss a great person God bless you my game rice and peace
Mike was a close friend first and always made time to answer any questions we had while traveling. Many of my customers appreciated the fact they could him directly. He was one of the best and I appreciated our friendship.
Mike you will be missed greatly. You were a mentor to me when I first started my career as an aviation technician. You were very patient and knowledgeable and have been a big part of my growth. We shared a passion for cars and trucks and enjoyed my time with you. I can’t count the number if field service calls we did together as part of my learning process. Mike was a good friend that stayed in touch with me over the years and was always there for me. Mike will leave a hole in my heart and a hole in the industry for sure.
Mike, Sorry to see you go, but enjoy the peace and view from heaven. I thoroughly enjoyed working with you and knowing you as a friend. We went on so many trips together over the years and it was my pleasure to learn from you, especially how to treat the customer right! Middle of the night the phone would ring and you’d jump in your truck and go fix it. You are a wonderful mix of top notch mechanic, great salesman and business manager. You will be missed!
Appreciated all the attention and consideration through the years.
Peace.
Worked with Mike for many years as customer and a friend . Mike was honest, loyal, and always on point. I appreciated his knowledge, dedication, humor, and willingness to step up at a moment’s notice. He was a mentor and a valued colleague. God Bless and Safe Journey..
I met Mike in Memphis in 1970 where we both were leaning to be jet engine mechanics. Through out the years Mike and I remained friends.
Mike played a major part in my families life and had a major part in Pat and I getting married.
One of a kind and a true friend who always spoke his mind. He was a great person and I will miss him dearly.