Michael Spivey

August 22, 1943-September 10, 2018

OKLAHOMA CITY

Michael Lawrence Spivey MAJOR United States Marine Corps (RET.) Mike was born August 22, 1943. The son of the late Leland and Mary Spivey, he graduated from Pratt High School in Kansas and Wichita State University. Mike was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps in 1967. His military career included flying F-4 Fighters, and many other aircraft, all over the world during his twenty years of active duty. He retired as a Major. Mike always smiled when he said, “I can’t believe I got paid for flying fighters”, his lifelong dream. He then worked as a high level executive for Delta Data Systems. He moved to Oklahoma City to work on the Oklahoma Telemedicine Network and was an entrepreneur and advisor for telecommunications and telemedicine businesses throughout the country. He spent three years in the US Virgin Islands as president and CEO of Virgin Islands Telecommunications Ltd. After moving back to OKC in 1999, he retired again before marrying the love of his life, Mona Cohlmia, on November 30, 1999. Never one to rest, Mike devoted his senior years to helping those less fortunate and volunteered at his church, St. Elijah Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church. He was always available to help his extended family with anything they needed. A mentor and role model to many, Mike took pride in helping his young relatives complete their Eagle Scout projects on his church’s property. Mike loved playing golf with his buddies and enjoyed spending weekends at the Cohlmia Brothers Farm. He is survived by his true love and partner in life, Mona Cohlmia; his sons and their families of which he was most proud: Michael Spivey, Chief Warrant Officer 3, US Army Retired, and wife Lauren; Mitchell Spivey, Senior Chief Petty Officer, US Navy, wife Stacey, and grandson Tyler. Also surviving him is his mom, Ruth Spivey; brothers, Dennis Spaniol (Barbara Marco) and Rick Spaniol (Kim Byrd); and sister, Leeann Casey; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. His positive attitude and unwavering faith in God throughout his illness was admirable. He always had a smile on his face and fought his health issues head on. Devoted husband, father, son, grandfather, brother, uncle, and great friend to many, Mike will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. Semper Fi Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 14, 2018, at St. Elijah Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church with interment to follow at Rose Hill Burial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the Flowers that do not Wither Fund through the church.