Michael “Mike” Sloan of Palmdale, CA and Wilbraham MA passed away unexpectedly on September 14, 2022 at his California home at the age of 69.
Mike was born in Seoul, Korea. His mother, Bok Hui Shin, as well as his beloved Halmoni (grandmother) and Imo’s (aunts) were important role models to Mike in childhood. With their love and support he developed Korean and Mandarin Chinese linguistic skills. He also developed an appreciation of music, which led to him becoming a diligent student of the violin.
Mike and his parents left Korea and moved to Bethesda MD in his early teenage years. English became his third language. With supportive new friends he adjusted to American culture and mastered English.
During his high school years, he attended Taipei American High School in Taiwan. He became a student of Tai Kwon Do and shared this interest with many of his lifelong friends. During these years, he had the opportunity to bring his musical prowess to the next level. Mike and his friends often enjoyed jamming together, while sharing plenty of laughs.
After completing high school, he continued his education at Rollins College then entered the ROTC program at University of Southern California. He completed his studies in foreign affairs and entered the US Navy as an Ensign. He enjoyed tours in San Diego aboard the USS Durham, Honolulu Hawaii as part of a joint command, Chinhae, South Korea as part of an intelligence command, Long Beach, CA aboard the USS Peleliu, Washington DC at Defense Intelligence Agency and finally with the US Consulate in Hong Kong as a Naval Attache. He ended his military career as a Navy Commander and moved on to life in the private sector.
Mike excelled in his positions with GE, Hurley Aircraft, and the Chinese Test Pilot School. These positions provided him with various international experiences that showcased his linguistic talent. Networking with friends and business contacts afforded him new opportunities to build his golf acumen, a sport in which he enjoyed immensely.
He was an active member of the Lancaster Baptist Church, where he developed a strong fellowship with Pastor Paul Chappell.
His greatest source of joy in life were his daughters Pamela and Katie. They enjoyed memorable vacations and holidays over the years. He supported their educational pursuits and personal challenges. He found joy in sharing his daughters’ accomplishments with friends and family. He will be greatly missed by Pamela and Katie.
Mike was predeceased by his dear parents Bok Hui and Robert Sloan. They were the heart and soul of Mikes life and legacy.
Please join us to celebrate the memory of Mike Sloan, at the Lancaster Baptist Church, Lancaster California on October 1, 2022 at 1 pm.