From Jeff

Unknown to me at the time I met his daughter, who eventually became my wife, Mike established a time-honored root in his family that blossomed into what became the most influential relationship that a son-in-law could possibly have with a man who portrayed the true meaning of family-worth and dedication.

My words couldn’t dictate his subtle, yet substantial, influence on me, but rather speak of a man who relayed pure and utter love for his family. There are many individuals that claim that they hold their family’s concerns as number one, but Mike’s love for his family is not a circumstance of occasional love, but a state of unconditional love and support.

Although my relationship with Mike was brief, his subtle influential lessons speak volumes of text, while I list them simply.

Unconditionally love your wife, daughter, family members and even strangers.

Don’t be judgmental, but rather accept them for who they are and not who you want them to be.

Learn to keep an open mind even when confronted with adversity.

Sure these are simple phrases to live by, but have you actually followed through with these 100% every single day? Chances are no, but Mike did! What sets him apart from others is that he was a believer, a true living example on how to live your life. He wasn’t an example of what should be, but of what could be!

I personally believe that his internal question was, “How can I make a positive impact on whomever I meet today?" Also, he just wanted to be accepted by everyone. He definitely was! I truly believe he met these internal goals long, long ago without knowing their true impact on people’s lives.

This wasn’t apparent to me until his funeral service, which became so overwhelming to me. A time where you realize that such a wonderful, great and influential person is no longer with you. I feel that not only am I deprived of his presence, but especially my daughter Grace who hadn’t even turned 2 years old yet. She will no longer get to spend time with her Poppy, who spent so much of his time holding her in his arms, rocking her to sleep, comforting her and just plain having fun. She’s been cheated and so have we, in spending time with such a wonderful person who unfortunately left our presence prematurely.

Aimee vaguely speaks of missing you, and I fear that her loss cannot be comforted by me alone. I pray that, even in your absence, you are still capable of providing support to you family even when I feel that I’m inadequate of doing so.

There is only only regret I feel. I never told you, “I love you, Mike”, and that’s my mistake.

Love forever,

Jeff