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Michael Kyriakos Obituary

Michael "Mike" Paul Kyriakos passed away on Sunday, January 24th 2021. He was 65 years old.

He was born on June 10, 1955 to Jamie and Donald Bales in Albuquerque, NM.

After the passing of Donald Bales, Jamie married Dr. Michael Kyriakos who lovingly adopted and raised Mike. The family resided in Kirkwood, Missouri where Michael attended Kirkwood High School, graduating in 1973. Mike briefly attended the University of Washington in St. Louis. He later transferred to the University of Kansas and graduated with a degree in secondary education.

Mike began teaching in the Ottawa school district. He taught at Ottawa Middle school and later transferred to the Ottawa High school where he taught Sociology and American History. During his time at both schools he coached volleyball, cross country, track and field, and assisted with basketball and wrestling. Mike was the sponsor for the Ottawa High School Key Club.

Mike was very active with his children's sports coaching them in both softball and volleyball. He was an avid music lover and enjoyed attending concerts through the year. He loved sports of all kinds, especially the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas University Jayhawks basketball team.

Mike was preceded in death by his father Donald Bales, his mother Jamie (Bales) Kyriakos, his aunt Jeanette Jordan, his uncle Richard Edwin Jordan and his brother-in-law Dr. Gary Vinyard.

Mike is survived by his wife, Sara (Vinyard) Kyriakos, his daughters Paula Forsythe [Noland] and Ellen Kyriakos, his brothers Edwin Matthew Kyriakos [Paula McAfee] and Kelly Kyriakos [Danielle], his father Dr. Michael Kyriakos, his aunt Ann Jessen [Hans], his aunt Irene Jordan, and his six nieces and nephews Zach Vinyard, Morgan Vinyard, Alex Kyriakos, Ashley Kyriakos, Noah Kyriakos and Jake Kyriakos.

His family hopes to celebrate his life this summer, date to be announced, services pending.

Condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jan. 27, 2021.
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Kyriakos

Not sure what to say?





Jamie and the boys lived next door to our family in Dellwood. I baby sat for Mike and Matt whenever Jamie needed a sitter. Mike and Matt were both in YMCA Indian Guides with my Dad as their proxy father. My dad always looked forward to his time shared with both boys. Linda Patterson Flanders, Innsbrook, MO

Linda Patterson Flanders

February 2, 2021

Your Shandy Aurora Family

January 31, 2021

I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I am sending love to you all.

Krista Hoy

Krista Hoy

January 31, 2021

Sara, I was in shock to hear about Mike. He gave so much of himself to others, his teaching and wisdom will be missed dearly. I'm so sorry dear
friend, we lost another good one. You are in my heart and I'm here.

Christine Hartwell-Jerby

Friend

January 28, 2021

As one of the three daughters to his surviving Uncle Edwin Jordan, we were shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. Mike was one of the nicest cousins who always went out of his way to remember us on special occasions. We were fortunate to see him a few years ago and meet his lovely family. I remember, years ago, sitting and talking about long distance running and how important it was for the soul. The world has lost a kind and considerate person too soon.

Barbara Jordan

Family

January 28, 2021

I’m sorry to hear the news about Mr. K. He was such a great teacher and coach! I offer my deepest condolences.

Jessica Mcginnis

Student

January 27, 2021

Mr.Kyriakos was a wonderful teacher. From his class I got a greater understanding of American History and a love of Jimi Hendrix. He played a video of Jimi Hendrix playing the Star Spangled Banner and to this day it is one of the most epic things I have ever seen...and one of my favorite high school memories. We did have lectures but they were never boring. My husband wasn't in his classes but he still talks about the time he wore his Sunday Best for our first Valentines Day and Mr.K saw him dressed like that and told me in class about it. I will admit I was a bit embarrassed because I felt underdressed but I thought it was nice that he complimented my husband's style. I also liked him because he never talked down or felt above the students because they were kids. He respected us and talked to us on our level. My husband and I are very sad to hear of his passing and send good vibes and condolences to the Kyriakos family. We will miss you Mr.K and thank you for everything.
-Erin, Levi and Milo Shumway.

Erin Stone Shumway

Student

January 27, 2021

Sara- Steve and I were sadden to hear of Mike’s passing. He will be remembered by so many for so many different reasons. I know Mike helped me get my job at Ottawa High School and have always appreciated that he wanted to help Steve and me. You and the girls are in my thoughts, I can’t imagine your grief.

Melissa Mitchell

Melissa Mitchell

Coworker

January 27, 2021

Mike was a wonderful man that inspired many students in the classroom, in sports and as a mentor. My family was fortunate to have all 3 of our children in Mike's classroom, our daughters on the volleyball court and to lend an ear when they needed it. Many young adults were put on the right path to stay in school and told that after high school gets better!

Armstrong/Frazier family

Acquaintance

January 27, 2021

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Funeral services provided by:

Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home & Crematory

601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044

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