This resolution expresses profound sorrow for the passing of John Michael "Mike" Kolen, who died on April 3, 2024, at the age of 76. It acknowledges the significant impact of his death on his family, friends, and the communities of Auburn, Birmingham, Miami, and Montgomery. Mike Kolen was celebrated for his achievements as a football player at Auburn University, where he earned the nickname "Captain Crunch" for his hard-hitting style and was recognized for his deep faith, becoming the first recipient of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes College Athlete of the Year Award in 1970.

The resolution also commemorates Mike Kolen's professional football career with the Miami Dolphins, where he was part of the historic 1972 undefeated Super Bowl Champion team. After retiring from the NFL, he found success in business, including real estate and as the founder of Kolen Financial Team. He was an author, a member of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, and a devoted family man, survived by his two children and five grandchildren. The Alabama Legislature offers this resolution in tribute to Mike Kolen's life and extends heartfelt sympathy to his grieving family.