Michael C. Combs

Michael C. Combs

Michael C. Combs, 69, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2007, at his sister and brother-in-law's home in Ashland, after struggling courageously with a protracted illness.

Mike was born to George and Joan Combs in Eureka, Utah, where his family owned and operated the Chief Consolidated Mining Company. As a boy, he moved with his family to California, where he lived for many years. In 1970, Mike and his wife and children moved to Shady Cove, Ore.

His career was defined by his work as a millwright, then as an industrial electrician. A true romantic at heart, Mike was well known for his aviation and sailing expertise, which he freely shared. He was a craftsman of exceptional skill, particularly in the area of aircraft construction. However, as his family will unanimously attest, his greatest achievements are reflected in the lives of his sons, of whom he was extremely proud. His death has created a permanent hole in the lives of his family and friends, and he will be sorely missed.

Mike is survived by his wife, Sandra Combs; sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and David Bennett, of Ashland; sister and brother-in-law, Colette and Allan Wright, of Medford; son, U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, John Combs, M.D. and daughter-in-law, Polyxeni Combs; grandchildren, Alexander and Penelope Combs, of West Point, N.Y.; son and daughter-in-law, Christopher and Cindy Combs, and grandchildren, Rachel and Christopher Combs, of San Carlos, Calif.; son, U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander, Thomas Combs and daughter-in-law, Heather, and grandchildren, Caleb and Bradan Combs, of Tampa, Fla.; son, Michael Combs, of Central Point; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his younger brothers, Stephen and Patrick Combs.

A rosary service will take place at 7:00 p.m. on January 6, 2007, at the Conger Morris Funeral Home, in Medford. The funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 a.m. on January 7, 2007, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, in Shady Cove.