Michael C Stokes       October 12, 1958-May 5, 2020

It is with deep sadness and sorrow that we mourn the passing of Michael Charles Stokes on May 5, 2020.

Affectionately known as “Tug” to his friends, Mick was born in Coventry, England on October 12, 1958. He attended Stivichall and Finham Park Schools where he developed his love of swimming. He joined the Sea Cadet Corps winning numerous swimming competitions and officially joined the Royal Navy in 1975. Stationed in Plymouth Mick was a Gunner and served on the Frigate, HMS Naiad where his travels took him to all parts of the world including the Seychelles and India.  He was chosen to serve in the aggressive Icelandic COD Wars earning a medal for his service.

During his stint in the Royal Navy he was proud to represent Devon Port as a member of his crew in the Field Gun Competitions held at the Royal Albert Hall which is a contest between teams from various Royal Navy commands, in which teams of sailors compete to transport a field gun and its equipment over and through a series of obstacles in the shortest time.

Always passionate about Rugby, Mick started playing in Junior School and eventually played the position of Hooker for the Old Coventrians in Coventry, England. He came to America on Rugby Tour and settled in the States in 1988 where he played for KU Rugby Club Team. He never lost his passion for this sport and always looked forward to watching every Six Nations game and sharing a pint with his best mates.

He also never lost his love of England. He was British by Birth, English by the Grace of God and he always looked forward to a trip “home.”

Mick was an avid reader with a keen interest in history, especially WWI. He always loved a good discussion with anyone who shared that interest.

He was an amazing and loving husband to Susie and would have celebrated 20 years of marriage on May 12. He dearly loved his families on both sides of The Pond and was the best fur-daddy to his Big Wooley Dogs Sophie and Bruno.

Mick was predeceased by his Mother Betty Stokes. He is survived by his Father Arthur Stokes, Brother Chris Stokes (Julie) of Coventry, England; Wife Susie Stokes; Step-children Jason and Lindsay Sizemore; Daughter-in-Law Stefanie Sizemore; Grandchildren Nick and Cadence Sizemore and Jett Gunter all of Kansas City.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date to raise a pint to this one-of-a-kind bloke who always loved a “laugh and a giggle.”

If you wish to do so, please make a donation to KU Rugby Club in Lawrence, KS in Tug’s name.     https://www.jayhawkrugby.com/

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