Michael ADAMS

April 22, 1949 - September 18, 2025

Pullman - Michael "Mike" James Adams, 76, passed away peacefully at his longtime Pullman home, surrounded by his family.

Mike was born on April 22, 1949 (Earth Day), at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, Washington, the only child of Rosalie "Peg" and John "Jim" Adams. He grew up in Spokane, attending Irving Elementary and Middle School, before graduating from Lewis & Clark High School. In 1965, he proudly earned his Eagle Scout Award, which led to his service-oriented life.

From a young age, Mike was dedicated to helping others. In high school, he volunteered in the pediatric wing at Deaconess Hospital and was a lifeguard at the YMCA and Comstock Park. His academic journey led him to Washington State University, where he pursued pre-med studies and, in 1971, received his first degree in Zoology. The following year, he completed a Pathologist's Assistant Program Certificate at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane.

In 1972, Mike and Ann returned to Pullman with their three children, where he earned his second bachelor's degree in 1974 in Bacteriology and Public Health. To support his family while in school, Mike worked many side jobs that integrated him into the community; officiating Pullman Parks and Recreation Softball, many high school sports for boys and girls, and serving on the school board.

In 1974, he began his long career of 49 years in WSU's Plant Pathology Department, working with Dr. Jack Rogers as a research technician. One of his favorite duties was assisting graduate and post-graduate students. Mike's specialty was electron microscopy and photography for more than 230 scientific publications and two mycological books. The authors thank Mike for his meticulous scrutiny of the manuscript and assistance with the illustrations.

Outside of his professional life, Mike was a man of many passions. As a lifelong music lover, he played the trombone as a child and later taught himself to play the guitar, bongos, and pedal steel guitar. He was a devoted attendee and volunteer at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, often driving guests from the Spokane airport to the event. He was an avid sports fan. Mike also played sports- if it involved movement, he approached it with skill, agility, and joy. He loved his Cougar family, Go Cougs! He had a good sense of humour and liked to tell funny stories.

Mike will be remembered for his devotion to family, his commitment to service, and his contributions to science. He lived fully, gave generously, and inspired those around him to do the same.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Rosalie "Peg" and John "Jim" Adams. He is survived by his companion/wife of 54 years, Ann McCormack-Adams; and their five children: Elizabeth McCormack (TJ), Rebecca Angell (Shawn), Levi McCormack, Margaret Pecchioli (Cosimo), and Anntionette McCormack-Adams (Jeremey). He also leaves behind ten beloved grandchildren: Levi and Preston Sheckles (Elizabeth), Kris, Kody, and Rosi Angell (Rebecca), Kimberly McCormack (Levi), Andy Vargas, Adamo and Annabella Pecchioli (Margaret), and Cora Marchewitz (Anntionette); and four great-grandchildren.

Thank you to all who provided prayers and support to Mike and his family during his illness. The family will send out a notice for a Celebration of Life in Spring of 2026. Please send condolences to https://www.corbeillfuneralhomes.com/location-pullman.