Michael Hitchingham, Sr.

A gentle soul left this world too early when Mike Hitchingham, 70, suffered a heart attack on Wednesday, March 1. Mike was born on July 29, 1946 in Ann Arbor, and he said his blood ran blue for the University of Michigan the rest of his life. He grew up in Chelsea, Michigan and graduated from Albion College. He did graduate work at the University of Michigan and finished his Master's Degree in math education at the University of Colorado.

Mike raised his four children in Centennial and never missed their numerous athletic, music, and scouting events. Mike was a strong supporter of St. Andrew United Methodist Church, having joined in 1974. He taught classes, served on Trustees, helped with Boy Scouts, and enjoyed time with the St. Andrew Nordic Explorers, Kinship and other social groups. He loved teaching math at high schools and college, and was honored by Mountain Vista High School when both his 9th and 11th graders scored tops in the district. In retirement, Mike volunteered with AARP to file taxes. Mike enjoyed his grandchildren, gardening, cooking, and spending time at his house on Torch Lake near Traverse City, Michigan. Travels took him to all 50 states, northern Europe and last year to Israel and Egypt with friends from St. Andrew.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Dianne, mother Grace Goodrich, sons Michael (Sue), Brandon (Emily), and David (Amy) Hitchingham, and daughter Laura (Randy) Thompson, as well as treasured grandchildren Taylor, Brianna, Owen, Cole, Bryce, and Grant Hitchingham, Jack and Lilia Thompson as well as many friends. His brother Jeff and father Bill preceded him in death.

Services are on Monday, March 6 at 2 p.m. St. Andrew UM Church, 9203 S. University Blvd., Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. Please no perfume or scented flowers. Memorial donations may be made to St. Andrew UM Church www.gostandrew.com or Developmental Disabilities Resource Center, 11177 W. 8th Ave., Lakewood, CO 80215, www.ddrcco.com.