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Michael "Mike" Kutchins December 1, 1941- September 10, 2014 Michael "Mike" Kutchins died on September 10, 2014, after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. He was born on Dec. 1, 1941, in Chicago, to Jack Kutchins and Bernice Kutchinsky. His childhood attendance at live radio and television performances led to a Journalism and Communications Degree from the University of Illinois, with a subsequent career as a news reporter and announcer, first in Illinois and then North Carolina. He maintained a lifetime fascination and brilliant understanding of technology, ranging across media and computer applications. His early work as a cameraman resulted in his award-winning photography hobby. As Business Editor for a Charlotte TV station, his reporting on airport news evolved into a new career as Administrative Assistant to the Airport Manager. In 1971, he came to San Antonio as Assistant Director of the San Antonio International and Stinson Airports and subsequently served as Airport Director from 1981 - 1997. His Aviation career expanded regionally and nationally, eventually into international arenas. He was elected President of the American Association of Airport Executives AAAE South Central Chapter, and then Chair of the National AAAE organization. He served several terms on its Board of Directors, and in 1997 received their highest honor, the AAAE Distinguished Service Award. After his retirement as Director of the San Antonio Airports, Mike worked as an Aviation Consultant traveling to North Korea, China, and Guatemala. Frequent travel with his wife included trips to Australia, Ireland, Asia and Europe, visiting family and friends. Mike was always planning a trip and selecting an improved camera or enhanced computer to record and share his experiences with friends and family. Mike is survived by his wife, Dr. Karen Waldron, and two sons, Bradley Kutchins wife, Carole Fong, and children Ashlei, Kourtnei, and Michael and Scott Kutchins wife, Nicole, and children Spencer and Logan. Additional survivors include stepsons Dr. James Waldron wife, KC, and children Cleo and Henry and Matthew Waldron wife, Ann, and dear family members Dr. Jeff Ko wife, Sandy, and children Siena, Charlize, and Leanne and Dr. Jack Ko wife, Mika, and children Sofia and Jake. Mike was very proud of his children and grandchildren and enjoyed their shared times together. He also took great pleasure from being in touch with his own childhood friends and had a special relationship with cousins spread across the country. His professional friends meant the world to him and became cherished personal friends as well. Mike considered the frequent visits, calls and emails from family and friends to be his Memorial as he fought cancer. In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made to the American Association of Airport Executives AAAE Foundation Scholarship Program 601 Madison St., Alexandria, VA 22314, or to Christus VNA Hospice & Palliative Care-San Antonio 4241 Woodcock Drive, San Antonio, TX 78228. His family extends their thanks to friends for their ongoing love and support.

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Michael "Mike" Kutchins

December 1, 1941 - September 10, 2014