Michael Cox Obituary

Michael James Cox, Mike to his friends, was taken from his loved ones on August 31, 2023 after finishing his day's work at Karl's Chevrolet in Ankeny, Iowa. The "grumpy old man with a heart of gold" as a co-worker described him, was known for his quick wit, love of music and dedication to his beloved 15 year old pitbull, Leda, aka "Poodle". Mike was born to James E. Cox and Lois W. Cox (nee, Roberts), and was deeply loved by his two sisters, Susan Smith (Tim, deceased) and Deanna Scripture (Tom) who were, at times, more like two additional mothers. A graduate of East High School class of 1979, he played football and was one of the first males to enroll in a Home Economics course where he demonstrated an uncanny skill for cooking and showed up his sisters by sewing a red wool long sleeved shirt compete with placket and cuffs. During his senior year, at age 17, he was diagnosed with Hodgkins Disease, a cancer which created life-long recurring medical difficulties. Due to his early cancer diagnosis, he deemed his life would be short and opted to forego further education in lieu of a determined effort to live in the moment. He "bounced back" from multiple health challenges including two hip replacements, heart attack, aortic valve replacement, lung removal, recurring cancers, knee replacement and just to be sure he defied the odds to the max, drove his motorcycle fast enough to break a few more body parts and inherit even more battle scars. He could sing beautifully and knew the lyrics to most songs he loved. Although he was known to have the capacity to make you belly laugh to tears, those who knew and loved him were also familiar with his quick temper which was often followed by reflection and deep remorse. His love of cooking was demonstrated on his Facebook posts entitled "Good Eats" where most comments involved requests for dinner invitations. He worked at his family's Fairground Hardware store for many years and created a comfortable home in the apartment above the store. He moved back to the parental home in 2018 and upon the passing of his father, he renovated most of the home in a classic and clean Mission style. He demonstrated a passion for niche high end antiques. As the next five years evaporated, so did his ability to compensate for his many health issues. He openly discussed with his loved ones that he simply could not go on much longer. He was taken quickly and for that, those who loved him are grateful that his suffering ended. He is survived by his sisters Susan and Deanna and his nieces Sunny Breed (Tim), Britta Ogden (Matt), Kelli Smith, Meghan Weltman (Brian) and Kelsey Scripture. He is also survived by great nieces Lily and Luella and great nephews Ryker, Elijah, Marlon and Jonah. He was preceded in death by his parents Jim and Lois Cox, brother-in-law Tim Smith and great nephew Rylan Ogden. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Bianchi's Hilltop Restaurant located at 2820 Hubbell Avenue in Des Moines from 4:30-7:00pm