The first time I met Cole we went cliff jumping at table rock lake in southern Missouri the summer before our first semester of college. When we got to the top of the cliff he pulled out a plastic bag from his swim trunks and filled it with trash we saw in the woods at the top. He sealed the bag and threw it down, then did a flip off the cliff landing next to the bag, proceeding to grab it and put it in the boat. I’ll never forget that day. You were the best friend I could ever ask for Cole.

Joe Avery

Cole Mika was one of the most intelligent and kind people I've ever known. As his older brother's roommate and best friend, the times I spent with Cole were often filled with catching up on his studies, friends, and adventures in Utah. He was constantly challenging himself in classes, with TA or internship opportunities, and always looking for the next big academic accomplishment (and nearby mountain) to climb.
   
In all aspects of his life, but especially when it came to school, Cole was incredibly dedicated, driven, intentional, and impressive. In the Fall of 2021, Cole visited us in New York City and while I assumed he'd want to hit the ground running on his trip - he spent his first day studying and preparing for a test later that day. I remember him trying to explain what he was studying for Chemical Engineering which, to me, might as well have been a foreign language. He passed with flying colors, of course. He was truly destined for greatness.
   
Cole will always be the smarter, cooler, little brother I never had and Utah will always be a special place where we remember him.

Maddy Choate

Cole, I am so proud of you at what you accomplished at the University of Utah. You truly loved learning and had so many plans for the future. From getting a degree in Chemical Engineering to also being pre-med, you planned your path to become a medical doctor and would have helped so many. You had found a wonderful home to pursue your dreams. You were able to do all the things outdoors you loved so much and I know you fell in love with Utah and it's beauty. There is a part of you that will always be there. You are missed every single day. You will be honored and loved by so many. I love you.

Mom

Cole was the most incredible brother I could have ever asked for. Cole's genuine curiosity of the world, his unwavering kindness, and his love of adventure made him one of the most unique people I had ever known. He cared so deeply about the people in his life, about chemistry and science, about the environment, and everything outdoors. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about him, and the impact he left on me and on everyone he knew. How incredibly lucky was I to have had him as my brother. I can only hope to live my life the way that Cole did, but I will spend each and every day trying. I love you Cole, forever.

Tatumn Mika