Michael Aaron Miles

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Aaron Miles, who entered eternal rest on July 21, 2026, at the age of 49. Although his time with use was far too short, Michael lived a life defined by service, curiosity, kindness and a sense of purpose that shaped the remarkable man he would become.

Michael was born on September 18, 1976, in Denver, Colorado to Allan and Yolanda Miles. He has one sister Rachael, and all together shared a lifelong bond built on love, laughter, and unwavering loyalty and countless memories.

From an early age, Michael was surrounded by the love and support of his parents. While his father worked hard to provide for the family, his mother walked him to Brown Elementary School each day, a simple act of devotion that became one of his fondest childhood memories. He grew up surrounded by the steady love, care and encouragement of both his parents and sister.

Michael grew up playing with marbles and making toy models of planes, tanks, and aircraft carriers. He loved playing with matchbox cars and had quite a collection through his young years. He collected baseball cards and coins from all over the world.

Michael graduated from Denver North High School, where he was a member of the Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (J.R.O.T.C). He contributed to the 1995 State Championship, bringing home the Governor’s Trophy, the highest honors this program can receive. This was one of the proudest moments of his youth, while proudly serving as the 3rd Battalion Commander. Inspired by the example of his father, who served in both the United States Army and the United States Navy, Michael chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and dedicated himself to military service.

In 1996, Michael enlisted in the United States Army. During his nine years and 29 days as a non-commissioned officer (NCO), he attained the rank of Sergeant (E-5) and took great pride in training, guiding, and mentoring his fellow service members. He was honored to call himself a “Red Leg”. A name used for an artillery solider; he expressed great pride in being a rocket man. Michael served as a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Crewmember, he also served positions of driver and gunner. His military assignments included service in Korea and deployment to Kuwait and Iraq in 2003. His unit was among the first field Artillery units to cross the border. His military decorations included two Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Automatic Rifle Bar, Driver and

Mechanic Badge with Driver T-Bar, Driver and Mechanic Badge and the Korean Defense Service Medal.

Many years following his military career, Michel pursued his passion for education. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Metropolitan State in Denver, CO. He developed a deep fascination with history, archaeology, ancient civilizations, and cultures around the world. He loved sharing fascinating historical facts with friends and family. His class presentations were known for combining knowledge with humor, reflecting his unique ability to educate while making people laugh.

Michael later earned his Master of Arts in Communication from Regis University. He often said that returning to school changed his life and wished he had enrolled sooner. During his time at Regis, he was honored with a Quilt of Valor, a meaningful tribute recognizing his military service and sacrifice. He was also inducted into Alpha Signa Nu, the Jesuit honor society, in recognition of his academic achievement and commitment to service.

Professionally, Michael dedicated eight years to Regis University in the Auxiliary Service Department. Michael was respected by colleagues for his professionalism, kindness and willingness to help others. It is especially meaningful that his life will be celebrated at the university that became such an important part of his journey.

Outside of his professional life, Michael embraced the things that brought him joy. He loved discovering new restaurants, trying different foods, listening to 80’s music and dancing to it. He enjoyed collecting Fleuvogs (shoes), Transformers, going to all the brunches, building Lego sets, and watching the latest movies. Michael was in a league of his own, with his eclectic style and unmistakable personality, he stood out in the best possible way. He was unapologetically himself and deeply loved for the authenticity he brought into every room.

Above all, Michael cherished his family. He deeply loved his parents and quietly cared for them with unwavering devotion. He remained deeply devoted to them up until his last breath. His kindness, loyalty, generosity, and compassionate spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Michael is survived by his loving parents, and devoted sister and friend Rachael. He is also survived by many lifelong friends, fellow soldiers, coworkers, classmates and countless others whose lives were enriched by his friendship and generous heart. His life was defined by service to his country. He will be remembered for his unwavering integrity, infectious sense of humor, brilliant curiosity, and steadfast devotion to those he loved.

Rest now soldier. May you find eternal peace in God’s loving arms, knowing your duty has been fulfilled with honor.

The Soldier's Creed

I am an American Soldier. I am a warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values. I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I will never quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade. I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills. I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself. I am an expert and I am a professional. I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy, the enemies of the United States of America in close combat. I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life. I am an American Soldier.