Michael Alan Caplan died on Monday, April 14 with his children and wife holding his hands. He was 86.<br><br>The contours of Michael's life had curves, steep hills, low rolling roads, barriers, beautiful views. He was born and raised in Detroit.<br><br>Michael met Marsha in high school during a summer school geometry class, he to make up a failing grade, she to get ahead. They married following graduation from Michigan State University. Son David was born while Michael was getting his law degree at Wayne State University. Son Andrew was born in New York while Michael earned a Masters degree in tax law at New York University. They then moved to Cincinnati where Michael started his financial consulting practice.<br><br>The sixteen years spent in Cincinnati went along a smooth road, raising the boys, making good friends, being active in community af fairs. One summer the family took a long road trip from Wyoming to New Mexico and decided to move to Boulder. In 1980 Boulder became home.<br><br>Moving to a new city where they knew only a few people provided Michael, a people person, the multi-lane highway which allowed him to become friends with an interesting mix of folks. A major curve in the road found them co-owners of the Hi Lo live entertainment bar for eight years.<br><br>After its sale, Michael created the M. Caplan Company which provided mediation, training programs, and advice to a variety of governmental, corporate, and nonprofit groups.<br><br>Activities which Michael loved include acting in a local private theater group; discussion at the couples' book group; the Thursday night poker game; films at the annual Labor Day weekend Telluride Film Festival; and walking the beach in Solana Beach CA.<br><br>Michael had a variety of health issues over the years. Needing a kidney transplant 11 years ago son David became a donor and son Andrew kept everyone sane during the double surgery. The end of Michael's winding road brought together those who will miss him the most: wife of 64 years, Marsha; son David and wife Cinda; son Andrew and wife Julie, granddaughter Abby and grandson Levi; sister Flora; nieces Carin (Steve), Amy (Jared), and Julie (Jeff); and many wonderful friends.<br><br>A Memorial Gathering to share stories, thoughts and memories will be held on Sunday, April 27 from 2-5 at the Jewish Community Center, 6007 Oreg Ave. Boulder. Donations in memory of Michael may be sent to Voices For Children CASA or any nonprofit agency of your choice.<br><div><br></div>