Michael John Langston

Michael "Mike" John Langston passed away at 80 years old on July 15, 2025, in Scottsdale, AZ, a beloved brother, uncle, father, stepfather, and grandfather. Born in Pittsburg, KS on October 27, 1944 to Ralph "Bus" and Olive Langston. He grew up in Iowa City, Iowa graduating from Iowa City High School in 1963. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy ("USAFA") in Colorado Springs, CO in 1967.

After graduating from the Academy, he successfully completed pilot training school. He flew T-37s, T-38s, F-4 Phantom II (in the Vietnam war) and the F-15 Eagle, the latter was his favorite jet to fly. Mike was a fighter squadron commander at Luke Air Force Base ("AFB"). He earned two master's degrees during his time in the military, one being from the prestigious Naval War College in RI. During his time of service, he earned the Bronze Star (in Vietnam), three Legions of Merit, and numerous other honors. As a fighter pilot, he achieved the Air Force "Top Gun Award" status on three occasions during his tour in the Pacific. Mike had a distinguished military career rising through the ranks until honorably retiring as a Colonel in 1987. He was proud to be a Veteran having served for our country.

Mike is survived by his older brother, Jeff (wife Carroll) Langston in MA, his daughter Nicole and son Bryan Langston in AZ, stepdaughter Shelly (husband Jim) Koshuta in VA, and niece Sallie (husband Andy) Batchelor in MA. He is survived by seven grandchildren; Quinn and Macy Langston, Joseph, Kelly, Casey, Jill and Katie Koshuta; plus two grandnephews Lang and Wes Batchelor. Mike loved spending time with his family.

Growing up he enjoyed playing football, baseball, basketball and golf. It brought him great joy watching his grandkids playing sports too. He was kind to all animals and loved bird watching. He donated to the Southwest Wildlife Conservation annually. He was also a member of the Daedalians; the Order of Daedalians is a fraternal and professional organization of American military pilots, founded in 1934. It honors the legacy of WWI military aviators and perpetuates the spirit of patriotism, love of country, and self-sacrifice.

A veteran memorial service will be held at the USAFA cemetery in Colorado Springs, CO for family and friends. Additional details will be added in the future once it is finalized.