Michael Anthony Edinger was born August 20, 1944 in San Diego, California. As a young boy, he was fascinated with model airplanes and could name every plane and engine ever made. His love of space, Star Trek, and all things science were a continuing theme in his life and his last wish was to have his ashes sent to space fulfilling his philosophy that you return to the universe after you die.
Mike met his wife of 60 years (Valerie Jeanne Karge) in high school. Meeting at such a young age and growing together to provide a life well lived was a testament to his hard work, resilience, and devotion. He shared a love of science and teaching with Valerie’s father, who was a career military officer and, upon retirement, became a high school physics teacher in the same district where Mike taught. A minor planet (4822 Karge), discovered 1986 Oct. 4 by E.Bowell at the Anderson Mesa Station of the Lowell Observatory, was named in his honor for his devotion to teaching, providing educational challenges and adventures for his physics students, and the development of opportunities for students to explore their interests beyond the classroom. After Mike retired, he and Valerie built their dream home in the mountains in Julian, California where he enjoyed the country life, gardening, and lots of wildlife. He truly believed that what we leave behind is not as important as how we lived.
As a father, Mike’s love of the unknown, science, and sci-fi was passed on to his daughter, Aimee (married to Dr. Trevor L. Hoffman), who is now a cancer researcher and professor at the University of California, Irvine. During her childhood, many evenings were spent watching and enjoying Star Trek on TV, in the movies, and once again with her children.
As a grandfather, Mike had a special relationship with his two granddaughters, Molly and Natalie. He was patient, whether teaching them woodworking or putting up with stubborn teenage shenanigans. His puns, some groan-worthy, made them smile. He taught them to be endlessly curious and was eager to share knowledge about everything from outer space to strange bacteria living on volcanoes. He reminded them to see the good in others. As a lifelong craftsman and builder, he taught them not just how to make things, but how to think - to approach challenges with creativity, ingenuity, and care. Molly and Natalie miss him, but see him everywhere: in the cards and gifts they make for others, in the strategies and solutions they come up with when working through a problem, and in the quiet voice that reminds them to “measure twice, cut once.” They have truly followed in his footsteps with their love of learning and are at the beginning of their own careers in science. “Live long and prosper” was his wish for their well-being and success. “Make it so” was his encouragement to turn their dreams into reality with determination and resolve.
As a high school teacher for 40 years, Mike made a difference in the lives of many. During his career, he taught Industrial Arts, Photography, Computers, Yearbook Advisor, and finally Activities and ASB Advisor, where he taught leadership skills. He was known for his humor, puns, wit, and charm. He was very funny and also very thoughtful. He had a “way” with students, parents, and other teachers - all adored him. He was a true model professional and leader.
Mike genuinely loved Star Trek and everything Sci-Fi. The core themes of acceptance, teamwork, exploration, and discovery inspired him in his pursuit of knowledge and understanding. He was always searching to expand the boundaries of his knowledge and approached the unknown with curiosity and respect. He felt that the themes and ideals of Star Trek were very pertinent in today's world, filled with divisiveness. This journey into space is a fitting tribute and meaningful farewell - returning him to the cosmos that inspired a life of asking questions, seeking knowledge, and boldly exploring new ideas.
