John Michael "Mike" Kolen's Obituary
A Celebration of Life Service for John Michael "Mike" Kolen, 76, of Birmingham, Alabama, will be held Monday, April 8, 2024 at 11:00 am at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Rev. Kurt Cooper and John Gibbons will officiate. A visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11:00 am before the service.
Mike, a cherished father, grandfather, teammate, and friend, passed away on April 3, 2024, at the age of 76 in Birmingham, Alabama. Born in Montgomery, Alabama, on January 31, 1948, Mike lived a life marked by kindness, faith, and generosity, touching the lives of those around him with his unwavering spirit and loving nature.
Mike graduated from W.A. Berry High School and went on to attend Auburn University where two pivotal events shaped his future: he dedicated his life to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ after watching a Billy Graham movie, and he met his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy Washburn Kolen.
Mike achieved notable success as a linebacker for the Auburn Tigers and the Miami Dolphins. His tenure with the Dolphins, from 1970 to 1977, was marked by dedication and hard work. He started for 8 seasons and was on the only undefeated NFL team in history. After retirement, he used his leadership skills in business, becoming the proud owner of Montgomery Athletic Club and Kolen Financial Team, where his influence and mentorship were deeply valued.
Mike's greatest legacy, however, lives on through his family. He is survived by his daughter Kelly Kolen Morris and his son John Michael Kolen, Jr. (Beth). He was the proud grandfather of Ann Hollon Schaffeld (Thomas), Duncan Morris, Michael Kolen, Francie Morris, John Morris, and great-granddaughter Nan Schaffeld.
Preceding him in death were his wife Nancy, parents Myrtis and Bob Kolen, and brothers Bobby Kolen and Mark Kolen.
Mike's life was a testament to the power of faith and the importance of family and friendship. His football career gave him the platform to speak to countless groups about the importance of knowing Jesus. Because of Mike's faith and generosity, his memory will be treasured.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, PO Box 230685, Montgomery, Alabama 36123 or www.alabamafca.org.
Langley Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John Michael Kolen.
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