Obituary of Lt. Col. Michael Thomas Reich, USAF,

Michael Thomas Reich, son of Gladys and Milbert Reich, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2020 in San Antonio, Texas. Born on March 3, 1949 in Bakersfield, California, Mike was a man of focus who devoted himself to career and family.Graduating from the Air Force Academy in June 1971, Mike was an Air Force man who rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel; his logic and mathematics skills providing him abundant opportunities to serve his country for twenty-six years in postings across the United States, abroad and, auspiciously, Albuquerque, New Mexico.Ballooning gave Mike new perspective of the world around him and perhaps it was the magic of letting go control that allowed fellow acolyte, Kelli Snyder, to change the course of this military man's life forever. They married on May 6, 1989 and, with the birth of a son, William August, on August 25, 1992, Mike retired from the Air Force, choosing instead to dedicate himself to the life of homemaker and primary caregiver. Mike was so proud when William later shared his love of aircraft and flight, studying for a career in aircraft manufacture and maintenance.Mike will be especially missed by those who appreciated the talents he shared. Mike's culinary skills delighted all who tasted his delicious holiday meals; his Steak Diane, his spaghetti pie, or even his "experiment" dinners. Mike and Kelli lived for their yearly sojourns to Disney culinary events; they gave Mike a wealth of dining experiences to reinvent. A tremendous genealogy enthusiast, Mike compiled and gifted individual histories every family member prized, rich with pictures and details gathered from decades of painstaking research. For his own reflection, Mike lovingly cultivated bonsai trees and orchids.Mike was predeceased in death by his mother and father.He is survived by his wife, Kelli Reich; son, William Reich; brother, Pat (Patricia) Reich; niece, Tiffany; and nephews, Jeremy and Ryan. Graveside Service, 1:00PM, Friday, February 7, 2020, United Stated Air Force Academy Cemetery, Air Force Academy, Colorado 80841.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mike's memory may be made to a hospice of your choice. Events Graveside Friday, February 7, 2020 1:00PM United States Air Force Academy Cemetery Colorado Springs, CO Phone: 719-328-179 Final Resting Place US Air Force Academy Cemetery 2168 Field House Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80840