Michael Wynn Buckingham, 61

Michael Wynn Buckingham, 61, died Jan. 2, 2014, at his daughter's home in Sedro Woolley, Wash., surrounded by family. 

Mike was born in Windsor, England, to Ward and Doris Buckingham on Nov. 3, 1952. He graduated from Highline High School in Burien, Wash., in 1971 and began his law enforcement career a few years later by joining the Normandy Park Police Department. 

In 1979, he graduated from the Washington State Patrol Academy and became a Washington State Patrol trooper. In 1981 he was severely burned when he was involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver he was pursuing. Unable to continue as a trooper, Mike pursued a law degree, graduating from the University of Puget Sound Law School. He spent many years traveling the U.S. and Canada speaking against drinking and driving. He was an active participant in the Kent, Wash., Fire and Police Departments’ program to combat drunk driving.

Mike was an avid swimmer and loved spending time at his family cabin on Bitterroot Lake. He was a wonderful father, son, brother and friend. He enjoyed working on wood projects with his father in their workshops.  

Mike was also an active member of Wabash Presbyterian Church and enjoyed the camaraderie of the Wabash Men's Choir.

After Mike's accident, he knew he had a purpose. God gave him life and he wanted to live it to the fullest. Mike did not want to be glorified, but rather wanted the glory to go to God.

He is survived by his daughter, Cristina, and her husband, Matt Waters, and their daughter, Ayla, of Sedro Woolley; Cristina’s mother, Cindy Tropple-Buckingham of Kirkland, Wash.; son, Rob Buckingham, of Olympia, Wash.; Rob's mother, Robin Buckingham, of Edmonton, Alberta; stepdaughter, Brianne, and her husband, Justin Radatzke, of Edmonton; brothers, Ward and his wife Cherie Buckingham of Spokane, and Mark and his wife Lorraine Buckingham of Enumclaw, Wash.

The memorial service for Mike will be held on Thursday, Jan. 16, at New Life Church, 15711 152 Ave. SE, Renton, Wash. 

Rather than flowers or a financial donation, Mike requested that you use what you would have given to strengthen your relationship with the Lord and your relationship with your family.

Please sign the online guest book at www.weeksfuneralhomes.com