Who is Mike & What is the Thing?

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Husband, Father, Grandfather, Veteran, Friend, Godfather, Uncle, Cousin, Neighbor...there is not one title that comes close to describing the man.  

He attributes much of his formative years and memories to his grandmother and uncles and cherished his extended family.

Marrying his soul mate weeks before spending a year in Vietnam, he spent much of his life fighting off the demons that resulted from losing his best friend to war and witnessing the atrocities that no one should experience.  Despite this, he lived with a love for country and freedom that many take for granted.  

Together they raised two children, imparting the values of commitment, hard work, respect and most importantly relationship. 

Mike left us quickly on May 18, 2025 after several months of declining health.  He was scheduled for a procedure on May 19 that we hoped would provide some answers and allow him to stay with us much longer. 

Only after his death did we begin to learn of the preparations he had been making as if he knew his remaining time with us was coming to an end.  He had told several people he wasn't afraid to die and it gives us comfort knowing that he believed Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior and we will see him again.  

A man of action, Mike preferred to spend more time doing than talking about it.  From frequently and anonymously buying meals for strangers at restaurants; being a handyman to neighbors, friends and family; going above and beyond at work; singing at church; offering a listening ear and heartfelt advice (solicited and unsolicited) to friends and strangers, he did it all with no need for thanks, desire for fanfare or strings attached.

We would be remiss to not mention that he did "call in favors" when he needed something; however, it was only because he had built relationships first that he also leaned on others at times.  There was no true expectation, just the intrinsic value in helping others.    

Mike was a character and everyone that knew him, knew he cared.  From sticking out his false teeth at every baby or toddler he saw, playing Santa Clause for the town, practical jokes with old friends and an ornery sense of humor, his character was filled with kindness, integrity, and authenticity.  Although his life was not without struggle, he always expressed concern for others, even those who held different beliefs.  Following his death, we heard from many young people who lamented on his lessons in their younger years.  He was straightforward and firm but always came from a place of encouragement, wanting the best for those who were fortunate enough to know him.  

It is said that the best gift a father can give his children is to love their mother.  Fifty-Seven (57) years married to the same person is almost unheard of anymore.  Mike didn't just love Connie, he liked her, adored her and he admired her.  

He always made time for his children, not because he had to, but because he truly enjoyed participating in their activities, getting to know their friends and ensuring they knew he would always listen to them, even if he didn't like what they had to say.  His granddaughter, however, took the spotlight and always had her Papaw wrapped around her finger.  

Mike also held a special place in his heart for so many friends and family.  He always had time to help someone in the garage, which likely took just as much time talking and solving the world's problems, then it did work.  He promised that what is said in the garage stays in the garage and he meant it.  His love for helping others is unmatched.