Michael Thomas Cousins

Michael Thomas Cousins, 81, of Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, after a long struggle with dementia.

He was born in the year 1944, in Portland, Oregon, to Thomas and Marion Cousins. He attended Benson High School and later joined the U.S Navy. Mike proudly served from 1961-1965 aboard the USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14), earning a Meritorious Service Award for participation in immediate, determined, and successful counterattack air strike operations against North Vietnamese torpedo boats and supporting facilities.

After his service, Mike enjoyed a long and skilled career as a CNC Machinist, making forklift parts at Hyster, submarine pumps at Bingham-Willamette, and airplane components at Boeing.

Mike is survived by his children: Leesa (Carl) Sippel, Brenda Sutton, Darcy (Rich) Fugate, Trish Cousins, Terry Cousins, Joe (Jessica) Cousins, and Amber Harwood. Grandchildren: Jessica, Kevin, Sam, David, Barbara, Maddie T, Brandon, Maddie C, Chloe, and Lexi. Great-Grandchildren: Lyssa, Ray, Olivia, and Sophia.

Mike is also survived by his sisters: Sue (Mike) DeSart and Kathi (Rick) Smith.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Cousins, and sons Ron Bernhardt and Damon Cousins.

Mike loved destruction derby racing, camping, fishing, ping pong, pool, and cutthroat basketball in the driveway. He and Judy cherished their lake house in Fairview, where they hosted family gatherings with Fourth of July boat rides and New Year's Eve celebrations.

He will be remembered for his love of cars, riding the green machine, grilling barbecue burgers, whistling, his humor and competitive spirit, and having fun taking family out in the boat on the lake.

A service will be held at Willamette Cemetery on Friday December 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM with full military honors.