Michael “Cole” Robinson was born in Lexington, Kentucky, in 2002. At the age of 23, Cole was called to his eternal home on June 15, 2026, following an aviation accident caused by a structural failure in his aircraft over Polk County, Florida.

Cole was an exceptional young man whose character, kindness, and dedication earned the respect of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Aviation was more than a career for him, it was a lifelong passion.

A graduate of Central Florida Aerospace Academy's Class of 2021, Cole began pursuing his aviation dreams at an early age. He joined the Lakeland Aero Club in 2017 as a freshman in high school and remained a devoted member throughout his life. On June 8, 2019, he completed his first solo flight in a Blanik L-23 glider, followed by his first powered airplane solo flight on November 29, 2019. His commitment to aviation excellence earned him the James C. Ray Scholarship for multiple years, providing opportunities that helped launch his flying career.

Cole graduated Cum Laude from Polk State College with a Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Science and achieved the significant milestone of becoming a Certified Flight Instructor in July 2025. He found great joy in sharing his love of flight with others.

Professionally, Cole served as a Certified Flight Instructor and worked as an Airside Operations Technician at Bartow Executive Airport. He also worked as a glider tow pilot at Seminole Lake Gliderport and previously held positions at Winter Haven Regional Airport and Jack Brown's Seaplane Base. His knowledge, professionalism, and enthusiasm made a lasting impact on the aviation community.

Outside of his aviation hobbies, including attending Sun 'n Fun and EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, instructing, and taking people flying, Cole loved working on engines, boating, fishing, sporting clay shooting, and spending time with family and friends. He was always eager to take on any challenge, especially when it involved mechanics or rebuilding engines. One of his proudest accomplishments was purchasing his first airplane in February 2026.

Cole is survived by his loving mother, Tami Campano; stepfather, E. Luis Campano; siblings, Chase, Brooke (Tanner), Paige and Rose (Austin); step-siblings, Marissa, and Zac (Sarah); grandparents, Mike and Diane Meadows. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and colleagues within the aviation community who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Todd Robinson; grandfather, Dr. H.G. Robinson; and grandmother, Bonnie Robinson.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 11:30am. A luncheon will immediately follow the service for those who wish to stay for a time of fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Lakeland Aero Club to support young pilots pursuing careers in aviation. Anyone feeling led to do so may follow this link, or text “flyforcole” to 855-800-4975.