Home > Blog > In Memory of Mike
Michael Baroman-Coggins
By Tara Blake, Marketing Communications Officer

Last week, the Project Open Hand community lost a true pillar of our agency, when Michael Baroman-Coggins, who served as Project Open Hand Executive Chef for more than 12 years, passed away after a long illness.

"Mike" served as Project Open Hand’s executive chef from August, 1997 until June, 2009. The impact made by Mike continues to be reflected in every meal we make at 730 Polk Street. Originally from the East Coast, a young Mike joined the Navy when he was fairly young and was stationed in Hawaii, where he served as a submariner and, fortunately for Project Open Hand, began his first practices in the kitchen. 

Mike was a talented musician, hard rock devotee, and had played in multiple bands throughout his life — including forming his very own Project Open Hand band! 

Darin Raffaelli, Project Open Hand’s staff accounting clerk commented, “They were called “Chicken Again”, which was a reference to constructive menu feedback received from some Project Open Hand clients. They played two Volunteer Appreciation parties. I recall a few employee parties where there was karaoke and Mike ALWAYS sang Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi. I guess it was his song.”

Multiple donations have been made in memory of Mike, and he will be remembered fondly for the remarkable contribution he made to Project Open Hand and the influence he had on clients, staff, and volunteers. 
 

How our staff remembers Mike: 
 

“Chef Mike embodied the mission of Project Open Hand — it permeated his heart and soul and he worked hard to realize that vision every day. And, he was an excellent and creative cook." -Tom Nolan, longtime Executive Director
“Mike hired me. He was always interacting with volunteers — always around the kitchen, engaging with everyone.” -Adrian Barrow, Executive Chef
“He was a super sweet guy and was very committed to Project Open Hand. After he moved on to work as the ED at Loaves and Fishes, he eventually returned to volunteer in the kitchen. It was good to see him again.” -Darin Raffaelli, Staff Accounting Clerk
“I was so sad when I heard about Mike’s passing. Mike was a big hearted guy and he was really dedicated to his job here at Project Open Hand. He would email staff from time to time at the end of day expressing how proud he was to work here. Cooking for our clients was very satisfying for him and he could get a little emotional about our work. He had a really great heavy metal singing voice! He was great to work with.” -Kim Madsen, Med, RD, Director of Nutrition Services
“Mike was a great gentlemen, a talented chef and a powerful singer. When he performed he seemed to be transformed into someone 50 lbs. lighter and 10 years younger and what a voice! He could mimic the classic rock singers of days gone by. CHICKEN AGAIN was the name of the classic rock cover band that also had Greg Kim (former Distribution Manager). They played a couple of benefits for Project Open Hand and people were always amazed that it was Chef Mike up there singing. He was always really kind and full of praise for the Facilities Department and is still thought of very kindly by the staff that remains and knew him. He is remembered fondly.” -Steve Hunter, Director, Building Operations     
 

Michael Baroman-Coggins

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1921 San Pablo Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
(510) 622-0221
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730 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 447-2300
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