It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, William “Mike” Black, who passed away Sept. 17, 2025, at the age of 76.
Mike was born June 24, 1949, in Texas to Evelyn Bell and William "Bill" Black. The eldest of four siblings, he shared a close bond with his sisters, Cathryn and Betty, and brother John. During his childhood, Mike's family moved frequently before settling in Beaver Crossing, where he was the last graduating class from Beaver Crossing.
Following graduation, Mike enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was stationed in Quantico, Virginia. During his service, he married and welcomed two daughters, Julie and Joann. After completing his military service, Mike earned a degree in Applied Science in Electronics and embarked on a long and successful career in fiber optics engineering, working with both military and private contractors.
In 1979, Mike met the love of his life, Deb, in Denver, Colorado. They were married on Valentine's Day in 1984 in Sun City, Arizona, and celebrated their 41st anniversary earlier this year. Together they shared a beautiful life and welcomed their daughter, Jessie, in 1991.
Pursuing a longtime dream, Mike and Deb opened a coffee shop, Woodland Perk, in Woodland Park, Colorado. After the shop closed, Mike returned to fiber optics contract work before retiring with Deb to nearby Divide, Colorado.
Mike's greatest joys came from his family and his passions. He cherished watching Jessie excel in sports and academics and later took great pleasure in learning to play the guitar, often sharing music and stories with close friends and loved ones. He was an avid reader, a natural storyteller, and a lifelong lover of music and sports. Over the years, Mike coached many youth teams and found lasting friendships through his love of the game.
He will be remembered for his wit, warmth, and the laughter he brought into every room. Mike was a proud husband, father and grandfather, loving brother, and loyal friend.
Mike is survived by his wife, Deb; daughters, Julie, Joann and Jessie, and son-in-law, Nick; grandchildren, Ethan, Saige, Luke, Jay, and Casey; two great-granddaughters; and his extended family, all of whom he held close to his heart.
A Celebration of Life will be Sunday, Nov. 2, from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Ute Pass Cultural Center in Woodland Park, Colorado. All who knew Mike are welcome to join us to share memories and honor his life.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to share their condolences are invited to attend the celebration or send a card with a memory or message to the family, something Mike would have truly appreciated.
You will be forever missed, Dad, Grandpa, Husband, “Bro,” and friend. Your stories, laughter, and love will live on in all of us.
