Michael D Horner

Michael David Horner Obituary

It is with a heart full of love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Michael David Horner, who passed away on May 18, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. He was born on July 2, 1974, in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, the first born of Robin (Boyle) and Nelson John Horner.

Michael’s journey was marked by an insatiable curiosity and passion for the world of aerospace after a visit to Cape Canaveral. He was a graduate of California Area School District with highest honors, including the Presidential Academic Award. He earned a Bachelors of Science (Penn State) and Masters of Science (University of Southern California) in Aerospace Engineering, and started his career at Boeing Phantom Works, working on NASA’s Space Shuttle program and X-37B. He was a brilliant aerospace engineer who dedicated his career to advancing the field of astrodynamics and inspiring those fortunate enough to work alongside him.  His spirit of innovation and commitment to technical excellence will leave a lasting legacy in the industry and the hearts of all who knew him.

Michael settled in Long Beach, California and embraced life with a spirit of adventure and humility. Whether he was traveling, practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, salsa dancing, scuba diving, working on his house, or simply spending time with loved ones, he approached each moment with energy and joy. His visits back home to California, Pennsylvania brightened all around him and he was rarely seen without a smile, laugh or dance move. His warmth, kindness, and infectious personality left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Michael shared his life with Tiffany Lim, whose love and devotion meant the world to him.

Michael was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Wesley B. Boyle, Cleo Conaway Boyle, paternal grandparents, Nelson J. Horner, Dolores Welling Crawford, Uncles Bruce Boyle and Michael Horner.

Michael is survived by his loving mother, Robin Horner; his father, John Horner; his sister, Carri (Lewis) Franco; his brother, Matthew (Holly) Horner. He will be deeply missed by his cherished nephew, Luke Franco, nieces, Ava Horner and Fallon Horner, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends will be welcomed for visitation in the Mariscotti Funeral Home, Inc. 323 Fourth Street, California, PA 15419. Anthony N. Mariscotti, Supervisor, on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 from 6-8 pm and Thursday, June 4 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on Friday, June 5 at 11 am in the Calvary Church of the Nazarene, 73 Promised Land Drive, Coal Center, PA 15423 with Rev. Rod Johnson, officiating, everyone is asked to meet directly at the church on Friday where family and friends will gather to honor and remember the joy and inspiration he brought into their lives.

Interment will follow in Lafayette Memorial Park, Brier Hill, PA 15415

Though we mourn the loss of Michael David Horner, we also celebrate the remarkable life he led and the unforgettable memories that will forever resonate in our hearts.

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