Finis "Fin" Wayne Futch, 82, of Merritt Island, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on May 16, 1944, on Merritt Island, Florida, Fin spent his entire life connected to the community he loved. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force Security Police from September 13, 1962, until his retirement on September 30, 1982, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant (MSgt). Throughout his military career, he distinguished himself through exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to his nation.

His military decorations and awards included the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Fin continued serving the nation's space program as a Launch Supervisor (Lieutenant) with Space Gateway Support. He was respected as a mentor and leader by those who worked alongside him and was known for sharing his knowledge, wisdom, and encouragement with others.

Above all else, Fin was devoted to his family. He shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kathleen, and was most proud of the family they built together. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, godfather, cousin, mentor, and friend. Known for his generous heart and selfless nature, Fin was always willing to go out of his way to help someone in need. Whether helping fix a car, lending a hand with a project, offering practical advice, or simply showing up when someone needed him most, he never hesitated to put others before himself. He will be remembered for his quick wit, unforgettable stories, and remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and loved. Whether spending time on the river, fishing, building bait traps, hunting, cruising with family, or trying his luck at the casino, he embraced life with enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Futch; his children, Steven (Christie) Laffey, Laurie (Ken) Rowe, Bradley (Theresa) Futch, and Traci (Troy) Futch-West; his grandchildren, Joshua Moody, Jacob (Anna) Moody, Jacob Rowe, Kaitlyn Futch, Evan West, and Makenna West; his great-granddaughter, Tyler Moody; and his siblings, Peggy Williamson and William Futch.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace Futch and Peggy Koivu, and his grandson, Bradley Futch Jr.

A true son of Merritt Island, Fin found happiness in the river he called home, the stories he shared, and the people he loved. Though he will be greatly missed, the memories he created and the lessons he taught will remain with his family and friends for generations to come.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on June 19, 2026, at 2:30 p.m.

Funeral services with military honors will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims, Florida, on June 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.