Michael Kain

1952 - 2022

Michael Kain
December 6, 1952 - September 24, 2022
Olympia , Washington - On Saturday, September 24, 2022, Michael "Mike" E. Kain, loving husband, devoted father of five, and proud grandfather of 7, passed away at the age of 69. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Mike earned his masters degree in Urban Planning from the University of Iowa, where he met the love of his life, Jo.
Mike had a long and successful career in city planning. He retired as the Planning Manager for Thurston County Resourse Stewardship Department as a respected and revered colleague to so many. In retirement, Mike continued his involvement in another great love of his, football. As the President of the South Sound Football Officials Association he was a mentor to countless other officials and loved by all who had the great pleasure of knowing him or the privilege of working with him.
Mike loved to explore the natural world. If you couldn't find him exploring Washington's mountains, forests, or beaches with his family, or cruising tropical waters with Jo, you could most likely find him reading books on science, calibrating his beloved bird call clocks, or cheering on the Mariners. He loved sharing facts about history and science while enjoying a nature hike and always taught his kids to "stay on the trail" to preserve the beauty and landscape.
Beyond anything else, Mike was most proud of his family. Mike's love for his family was evident in all that he did and to all those that knew him. His wife, Jo, his children, and his grandchildren were his pride and his joy. He loved them fiercely and relished every moment with them.
The last week of Mike's life was filled with all of his favorite things. He and Jo celebrated their last child's wedding. He spent precious time with each and every one of his kids, their spouses which he loved like his own, and all seven grandchildren. He went to Mt. Rainier. And he wore the white hat at a highschool football game in the town where he built a beautifil life for his family.
Mike is survived by his wife, Jo, his children, Heidi, Nathan, Alex, Jordan, and Jared, his father Ben, and his sisters Patty and Brenda. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that those who are able, make a donation to the National Park Foundation in his memory.