Obituary published on Legacy.com by Absolute Economical Funeral Home LLC on Nov. 7, 2023.
In Loving Memory of Michael Lee Gold
August 31, 1947 - November 2, 2023
Michael Lee Gold (Mike), a beloved history teacher at Putnam City School District, dedicated coach, Husband, Father, and Grandfather, left this world on November 2, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 31, 1947, in
Houston, Texas, to his parents Fred and Betty Gold. Mike's passion for teaching and coaching led him to an everlasting impact on the lives of countless students and his players. He attended John Brown University, where he developed a love for learning that he shared with his students over his years at Putnam City School District. While attending John Brown, Mike played basketball and baseball where he was soon drafted into the MLB. This however was put aside as he was drafted for the Vietnam War. Thankfully, Mike never had to deploy. On December 22, 1973, Mike married the love of his life, Susan Gayle Phillips. Together, they created a loving home for their children, Michael Ryan Gold and Jamie Lee Cope. Mike was a devoted father who cherished every moment spent with his family and loved to watch them compete in their respective sports. He was so proud of Ryan and Jamie and all of their accomplishments.
Mike's legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, and his brother. Steve Gold, his brother, his wife Deb, and his children and grandchildren. Ryan Gold, his son, is married to Kari Gold, and they have four children, Kenley, Blaine, Gavin, and Talon. Jamie Cope, his daughter, is married to Josh Cope, and they have three children, Blake and his wife Madison, Jake, and Brynlee. Mike found immense joy in his role as a grandparent and took pride in his grandchildren's achievements and activities. His favorite thing to do was watch his grandchildren play in his back pasture or go across the pond to watch them learn how to play in the outdoors. Mike enjoyed fishing, working on and shooting his guns, and riding his tractor around his property. Along with these hobbies, Mike also enjoyed leatherwork and woodwork. He created many chests and pieces of furniture for his family that they will have forever in his memory.
Mike was a God-fearing, competitive, funny, kind, and compassionate man whose presence left an impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passion for learning, coaching, fishing, and watching his children and grandchildren grow will be remembered for generations to come. Most importantly, his love for Susan will always be remembered as they created a beautiful life together that their loved ones get to celebrate forever. Mike was greeted at the Gates of Heaven by his parents, Fred and Betty Gold, his Mother, and Father-in-law, Howard Boyd Philips his wife Anna Lee Philips, his brother-in-law Bill Philips, and his grandson Michael Blaine Gold.
Mike's desire was for a quiet farewell without a formal service. In lieu of a traditional ceremony and floral tributes, the family is kindly requesting contributions to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Mike battled the disease for numerous years, and supporting research for a cure in his name would be a meaningful tribute to his enduring spirit. https://fundraise.givesmart. (https://fundraise.givesmart.)
Please join us in remembering and celebrating the remarkable life of Michael Lee Gold. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude.