Memorial
Michael E. Birmingham of Cedar Rapids, Iowa passed away Monday December 17, 2018. Michael was born on July 14, 1949 in Charles City, Iowa to James P. and Gladys (Warner) Birmingham. He was raised in Elma, Iowa.
Michael was survived by his wife of 43 years Sandra, son: John Birmingham, daughter: Jodi Birmingham, Step Children David Nelson, and Julie (Mike) Elam, Grandchildren: Matt, Jason, Sarah, Christopher, Casey and Lisa (11) Great Grandchildren, sister: Dorothy (Bob) Shive, and several nephews.
Preceded in death by his parents and brothers Jim and Joe Birmingham.
Viewing for family and friends will be at Cedar Memorial on Friday, December 21 from 4-7 PM Service at Cedar Memorial Chapel Saturday, December 22 at 1:00 PM
Michael joined the Cedar Rapids Police dept. in 1971. He rose to rank of Lieutenant in 1987 and was team leader for the Special Response Team (SRT). He was Chief of Police in Marion, IA from 1987- 1991. Then hired as Adjunct Instructor in the Social Science and Career options Dept. Criminal Justice Programs from 1992-1993. Joined the Mt. Vernon Police Dept. and serve the Community from 1992-1994. He was hired by the City of Grinnell as Police Chief in 1994 serving that Community until 2002. He moved on to teach at Kirkwood Community College as a Professor of Criminal Justice from 2003 until the day he passed away.
Michael proudly served in the Army 1982 as a Staff Sergeant/E6 Army Reserve, 12th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces.
Professional Affiliations:
Iowa Association of Chief of Police and Peace Officers ( Life Member)
* President
* Legislative Liaison Committee ( Chairman)
* Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Curriculum Development Committee
* Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Telecommunicator's Training Advisory Committee
* Iowa E-911 Council
* Budget Committee
Iowa State Police Association:
Past member of the international Association of Chiefs of Police
Iowa Police Executive Forum and Iowa Tactical Officers Association
Michael was an exceptional man. He was VERY involved with his family. Always having his arms wide open to anyone who needed him. He showed anyone who walked in his door love. No matter how he was feeling he was right there to lend a hand or an ear. We learned from him the value of family and making sure you always take of your own. Leaving a lasting impression on our lives. Being the patriarch of the family he was adored and respected. EVERYONE loved him. Michael was 100% IRISH and PROUD of it!
Memorial donations may be directed to Critter Crusades PO Box 10111 Cedar Rapids, IA 52410 or Cedar Valley Humane Society 7411 Mt. Vernon Rd. Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.