Lt. Colonel Michael W. Kuja Jr ‘68

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Colonel Michael W. Kuja Jr., age 75, finished his life’s journey, and battle with Lewy body dementia on Saturday, November 6, 2021. He passed peacefully in his family home, accompanied by his loving wife Linda and daughter Heather.

Michael was born in Quincy, MA to Michael and Nancy Kuja. After receiving his degree in mechanical engineering at the University of New Hampshire, Michael joined the U.S. Air Force and proudly served for 28 years. He began flying his KC 135 refueling tanker in the Vietnam War, and ended during Operation Desert Storm, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Michael then brought his talents to General Dynamics, and spent 25 years working as a planning specialist at Electric Boat.

As proud as he was with his military service, the “Flying Finn” brought the same level of tenacity and attention to his friends and family. During his life, his beloved home at Kenwood was the center of the world for his grandchildren. Upholding his legacy as the favorite Santa Claus, every year without fail he would craft the perfect sledding hill for the holiday season. From tailgating at Amherst Football games to family picnic/pool parties, Grandpa Mickey brought love, life, and laughter to everyone. We will never forget his Father’s Day lobster lunches, him stealing Christmas cookies as he walked by, and his love for Linda’s Pulla bread and Panukakkuu (Finnish Pancake).

Michael is survived by his beloved wife Linda, and his brother-in-law Richard Cox. He will continue to be loved and remembered by his children Kari, Erik, Heather, Kimberly, and Ashley. He has had the pleasure of loving and caring for his grandchildren Isaiah, Zanaya, Gino, Helen, Jackson, Benjamin, Gabe, Sixten, Svea, Liam, Emma, Scarlett, his great granddaughter Aaliyah, and his “guy-guy” Oliver and numerous loving nieces and nephews.

“Fly high” Grandpa Mickey, we will always look to the sky when we hear an airplane and think of you.