Michael David Stinson

Michael “Mike” David Stinson, aged 77, died unexpectedly but peacefully in his home on April 28th, 2022. He is survived by his children, Erik Stinson and Monika Eiden and their spouses, Carmen Stinson and Joe Eiden, his 3 grandchildren, Mia Stinson, Willem and Cecelia Eiden, and his brother and sister-in-law, Greg and Sherry Stinson. He is preceded in death by his wife, Christa Stinson of 31 years and his parents Dave and Mildred Stinson.

Mike was born in Chehalis, Washington and grew up in Forest Grove, Oregon. He graduated with a BA from the University of Oregon where he also spent his junior year studying abroad in Holland at Nyenrode Castle.  He then joined the United States Air Force as an officer. Mike trained as a pilot and flew B-52’s for the first part of his Air Force Career. Mike was a command pilot with over 4,000 flying hours. Deployed for multiple tours of duty during the Vietnam War, he received a Distinguished Flying Cross for combat and received 10 Air Medals. His flying years were where he met other lifelong “bufdrivers” creating stories that they would recall at every gathering. Mike spent tours in Texas, Guam, Washington DC and an extended deployment in Germany where the family had the fortunate experience of connecting with many of his wife’s relatives who lived close by. Living in Germany was the highlight of growing years for his children and where many relationships were made that continue today. These years were spent traveling all over Europe creating experiences of a lifetime. He spent his last tour in California where Mike retired as a Lt. Colonel in the United States Air Force ending a distinguished career that lasted 26 years. After moving to Poquoson, Virginia he worked for various companies before becoming a government contractor and retiring again. He moved and settled into a wonderful community in Williamsburg, Virginia.

All through his life Mike loved to travel and visit with friends that he made during his many adventures. It brought him great joy to organize ski trips for his family and friends and continue their gatherings annually. He loved returning to Oregon and Washington to visit family and friends and also share with his kids the joy of spending summers on the lake. Mike was always quick with a friendly smile and a warm greeting which made you feel at ease in his presence. Mike served his family, community and country with honor and generosity.

A service will be held to honor and remember Mike at Hickory Neck Episcopal Church on Friday, May 6th at 2pm in Toano, VA. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Veterans Administration or your favorite charity.

Mike will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a later date. Bucktrout Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.