Michael Joseph Adams

In Loving Memory of Michael J. Adams

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael J. Adams, a cherished husband, devoted father, and beloved Oh-Oh Papa, who peacefully departed this world on September 13, 2024, at the age of 68. His legacy of love and laughter will forever echo in the hearts of his family and friends in Simi Valley, California.

Born on July 29, 1956, in Queens, New York, Michael was the second of five children to Robert Eugene and Kathleen Healy-Adams. Surrounded by the warmth of family, he shared countless memories with his brothers Robert, John, and Brian, and sister Kathleen. A bright student, he graduated from Archbishop Molloy High School, later earning a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering and a Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics from the Polytechnic Institute of New York.

In November 1980, Michael left New York and embarked on an impressive professional journey at Rockwell International Rocketdyne Division in Canoga Park, California. Over nearly 44 years, he made significant contributions to propulsion systems on many aerospace programs, including: Atlas MA-5, Delta RS-27, Space Shuttle (Main Engines), X-30 National Aerospace Plane (NASP). Throughout his tenure, Mike adeptly worked through scores of important technical activities and navigated several corporate transitions, ultimately completing his career as Principal Engineer in Systems Engineering & Integration at the Aerojet Rocketdyne, segment of L3 Harris working on the new RS-25 engines for the Space Launch System (SLS) Artemis launch vehicle. The inaugural Artemis I launched November 2022 and Artemis II is scheduled to launch again in the fall of 2025. His technical know-how and unwavering commitment to his field inspired great relationships and pride in all who knew him.

On May 9, 1987, Michael married the love of his life, Dawn Seymour. Together, they created a beautiful family, welcoming daughters Kelsi, Kelli, and Kaitlyn, whose laughter and love filled their home with joy. The Adams family cherished many adventures, from skiing trips in California and Arizona to annual visits back to New York, strengthening their bonds. As the girls grew, Michael and Dawn embraced new travels, enjoying wine regions and beautiful vacations in Cancun, Cabo, Seattle and Hawaii. Friends fondly remember him as the ultimate Costco shopper, often joking about his weekend excursions.

Michael’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn; daughters Kelsi Swink and her husband Tyler, Kelli, and Kaitlyn; grandchildren Stetson and Bristol Swink; and future son-in-law Jeremy Russo, who is set to marry Kelli on September 26, 2025. He is preceded in death by his parents and mother-in-law, Nora Seymour, as well as his cherished dogs Olias, Lucky, Joy, and Azzy.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, they kindly ask that donations be made in Michael's honor to Ventura County Animal Services or your local animal shelter, as well as Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County—organizations that held special meaning for him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 8, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Reardon Family Mortuary, 2636 Sycamore Dr., Simi Valley, CA 93065. Family and friends are invited to join afterward for a video tribute and to share stories that honor the 68 wonderful years Michael graced this earth. In his memory, we invite you to wear a T-shirt reflecting Mike’s Irish heritage, love for the Yankees, or his 44 years as a rocket scientist.

Michael’s spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him—a testament to a life well-lived, filled with kindness and generosity. We will carry his memory with us, forever grateful for the time we shared.

Animal Services Foundation of Ventura County

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County