June 28, 1974 – January 9, 2026
Col. Thad R. Middleton, United States Air Force (Ret.), passed away on January 9, 2026, at the age of 51. Born and raised in Port Huron, Michigan, Thad dedicated his life to service, faith, and the people he loved.
A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 1997, Col. Middleton served over 25 years with honor and integrity. Thad’s greatest joy in the Air Force came from command positions at the 9th Air Refueling Squadron at Travis Air Force Base, California, and the 22nd Operations Group at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. Throughout his career, he inspired countless airmen with his sincere leadership, dedication, and genuine care for those he led.
After retiring from the Air Force in 2023, Thad continued his passion for aviation as a commercial pilot for United Airlines, bringing the same passion and commitment to his passengers that he had shown his airmen.
Even in retirement, Thad remained a man of faith and a connector of people. He cherished his relationships and stayed deeply committed to friends, family, and colleagues, maintaining bonds that lasted a lifetime. He was a devoted husband to Katie and a loving father to Grant and Oliver, always prioritizing their wellbeing, guiding them with wisdom, and filling their lives with love and laughter.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Katie; his sons, Grant and Oliver; his parents, Marcus and Carol (Lewandowski) Middleton; and his brother, John Middleton.
Col. Middleton’s legacy will be remembered not only for his remarkable career but for the guidance, mentorship, and steadfast love he shared with his family, his airmen, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, January 30, at the United States Air Force Academy Cemetery Memorial Pavilion, with a reception to follow at the Eisenhower Golf Course, USAFA.
The family is deeply grateful for the care, prayers, and support received from friends, family, and colleagues during Thad’s courageous battle.
The Buckley SFB military Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to offer our sincere condolences and our gratitude for Col Middleton’s over 25 years of distinguished service to our country in the Air Force. If you would like help with any matters related to casualty assistance, Defense Finance & Accounting Service, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Veterans Affairs (VA), etc. you can contact our office on Buckley SFB at 720-847-6693 or raobuckley@gmail.com. The RAO is staffed by volunteers, all military retirees themselves, and our sole purpose is to provide assistance to any military retirees and surviving spouses/family members with anything related to their military service and/or benefits, in particular during difficult times such as this. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Steve Young
Lt Col, USAF, Ret
Director, Buckley SFB RAO