John Michael “Mike” McBride, 77, Salina, passed away in his home on August 4, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.
Mike was born in Colby Kansas to parents Azel (Hopper) and John McBride. Although the family lived in several other places, they eventually returned to Colby where Mike graduated from High School in 1965. After graduation, Mike joined the Air Force and served five years overseas in Japan and Vietnam. After the service Mike returned to Colby and drove a bus route.
It was in Colby that Mike met the love of his life, Jackie, and they were married on December 9, 1972, at United Methodist Church, Colby. The couple moved to Salina a few years later where they later had one son, Michael “Wiley” just days before their ninth anniversary.Over the years, Mike worked for the local lumberyard, as insurance salesman, and as clerk for the Santa Fe Railroad.
He loved metal detecting as a hobby and became an independent dealer for MineLab metal detectors. He enjoyed collecting antique guns and coins.
Mike was most proud of two things: his military service and his grandchildren. If you ever met him, you have heard stories about both.
Over the year, Mike volunteered as a Boy Scout Troop Leader, soccer coach, and baseball coach. He was also a lifetime member of the VFW.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Jane McBride, and brother-in-law Lloyd Wolf. He leaves behind to grieve his passing: wife Jackie, of the home; son Wiley (Kendra) McBride of Hays, Kansas; grandchildren McKena, Kaden, and Kamden McBride of Hays; brother Lynn McBride of Paola; sister Kay Wolf of Hutchinson; brothers-in-law Rick (Peggy) Tillett and Rod Tillett of Salina, and Rory Tillett of Claflin, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 9, at 10:30am, at Ryan Mortuary in Salina, with Pastor Bruce Dimick officiating. A private interment will be at a later date.
The family would like to extend their appreciation to the Salina Fire Department Station 3 for all their neighborly help over the past few years. Memorials may be made to the Salina Fire Department in the care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth, Salina, KS, 67401.