Mike Behrbaum

Michael Steven Behrbaum, age 74, passed away on Friday, July 5, 2024. Mike was born April 1, 1950 in Renton, WA and lived most of his adult life in Auburn, WA before retiring to the Methow Valley in 2017. Mike was a graduate of Kent Meridian H.S., Green River Community College, Central Washington University, and Pacific Lutheran University. He taught health and physical education at Green River College (1974-2020) and coached track and field and cross country at both Green River (1974-78) and Bellevue College (1979-96).
Mike was an outstanding athlete (sprinter/hurdler/long jumper) and an inspirational coach and teacher. A long time friend and fellow coach said he "loved coaching with Mike. He was good with kids and so much fun to be around...he was such a good coach". Mike's positive encouragement and expertise motivated his students and athletes to challenge themselves, believe in their abilities, and achieve their best. Mike was a caring and loyal spouse, family member, friend, coach, and colleague. He could tell intricate, animated stories and make anyone laugh. Mike was a runner for most of his life, participating in local 5K and 10K races year round. Mike was also an outdoorsman who enjoyed nature, bass fishing and fly fishing, canoeing, hiking, camping, gardening, and cross country skiing.
Mike lived life to the fullest and touched the lives of others in big and small ways. He will be missed, but always smiling in our hearts. Mike is survived by his wife Anita, mother Wanda, mother-in-law Rosie, sister Kelly, brothers/sisters-in-law Denny, Randy, Wendy, Teri, Darren, nieces/nephews Alec, Nikki, Rick, Megan, Sierra, AJ, and great nephews/nieces Bryce, Jeremy, Lorelei, Delaney, Nora.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Mike in Winthrop, WA, on August 16th from 5pm-7pm.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer's Association. https://www.alz.org/