Michael N. Mohnkern, passed away at his home on May 17, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on January 26, 1953 in Houston, Texas, to Norman and Joy Mohnkern, Mike grew up in the Spring Branch area and graduated from Spring Woods High School in 1971. Mike went on to graduate from Texas A&M University-College Station with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education in 1975. While at Texas A&M, he was a founding member of the Men's Lacrosse Team and actively involved with intermural sports.
Mike was a beloved teacher and coach and had just completed 20 years of service with Aldine ISD, and most recently as an instructor at Drew Academy. He received numerous teaching awards throughout his career including the Exxon Math/Science Teacher of the Year. As an instructor at Nimitz High School, Mike was selected as "Teacher of the Year" and became a finalist for Aldine ISD "Teacher of the Year". Mike served as the Physical Education Director at the Post Oak YMCA from 1981-1990, and later as Extension Director at the Fairfield Family YMCA.
For many years, Mike served as a coach of Bellaire High School girls' lacrosse team and was very active in numerous other lacrosse programs throughout the greater Houston area. At the recent Houston Girls' High School Lacrosse Playoffs, the first Michael Mohnkern Lacrosse Scholarship (for a deserving senior player) was awarded.
Mike is survived by his mother, Joy Mohnkern Kakos; daughter, Colleen Mohnkern; sister, Michelle Raymond and husband, Kim; sister Melanie de los Santos and husband, J.B.; brother Miles Mohnkern and wife, Diane; as well as nieces, Lindsey and Madison, and nephews, Philip, Garrin, Colin, his wife Angie. Mike is also survived by the countless friends, neighbors, students, educators, coaches and lacrosse players whose lives were deeply touched by his enthusiasm and positive attitude.