I saw Michael for the first time in ages a couple weeks ago on a particularly cold climbing trip. He was manning the grill and let me huddle around it to warm my hands and shoot the breeze with him after a great (if chilly) day of climbing. He was as welcoming and helpful as ever. He shared his steak, whiskey, and time with us all that evening. He shamelessly spoiled my dog with leftovers and forgave him when he was rude to Remi.
I’m really going to miss catching up with him around a fire.
Lots of love to his family and to dear Remi.
I remember little Mikey from high school. He was a sweet boy and I enjoyed getting to know him and spend time with him. He will always be loved and missed. Fly high buddy we will meet again!!!!!
It's always shocking when someone leaves this realm unexpectedly. Michael is no exception. Michael showed up into the Kansas City Climbing Community a couple years ago invited by my friend Bryan Schillig. I met him around a fire with a warm handshake and a smile. He was clearly new to the sport, but low on the ego and willing to learn. Throughout that first night he made us all laugh with stories from "the beginner". The next day Michael shows up out of the woods. It's my birthday and I am trying to do some all day climbing to hit a particular goal. Michael says "how can I help?" and he proceeds to belay (hold the rope/my life) for me the rest of the day. He was selfless. A year later he did the same thing again, coming down to Arkansas to support Bryan and I as we climbed in a all day/all night competition. Michael did everything in his power to make sure we succeeded. We did. He had a servants heart. "How can I help?" is what I think when I think of Michael. He will be missed. Thanks for sharing him with us.
I met Michael through KC Climbing Club. I spoke to him the weekend before he passed. Our last conversation was about ice baths and how they're amazing for soreness. I told him I'd get back to him on how my full body icebath self-experiment goes. He crossed my mind multiple times the 23rd and the 24th randomly. Life's funny like that. Wasn't until Sunday I found out he passed away, and it still shocks me. I haven't gotten around to doing my full ice bath (partly terrified eeeek) and since I cannot make it out to Clinton Thursday due evening classes, I will do my icebath experiment that day in honor of his memory.
He touched the hearts of many people in the KC climbing community. I feel very blessed to have known him. My heart goes out to his family, loved ones, and Remi.
I had the privilege of getting to know Michael over the summer as we prepared for and hiked up Mt Elbert in Colorado with our mutual friend, Nick. It was the first trip of that nature for me and Michael helped make the entire experience amazing. His general kindness and fun/friendly nature were always on display, and his love for nature was infectious. I'll never forget that trip and likely never be able to see or think about mountains without him hanging there somewhere with me.
Michael, as a friend and fellow Cerner associate, I'll miss you, man. I wish we had met sooner. If I ever do another 14er, you can rest assured that I will be carrying you with me up that mountain.
My wife and I were blessed to have met Michael and his family a couple years back while on a bike trip. We are so sorry for your loss and even though we only met for a brief time I know Sue and I will never forget what a kind soul Michael was. To the entire family, please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Corry & Sue from Minnesota
Hi Michael, This is Pear. I think you know how I feel. You were my first true love. I will never forget you and this I need you to know. You will always remain my sweetest memory. I'll miss you until we meet again. <3
I can’t believe you’re gone. I am so blessed to be your sister. I can’t explain the heartache that comes with losing you. I lost a piece of my heart last Thursday. I love you baby brother.
I was Michael’s manager at Cerner over the last two years. Michael was the life of the team and we all loved working with him. Michael always made us laugh and had a positive attitude. He was also always willing to help others and he found joy in doing so. His bright and cheerful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. I am grateful to have known Michael as both a colleague and a friend.
Praying for peace and comfort for all of Michael’s family and friends.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Laura Ward
I always remember him being a sweet and caring soul. In high school he was always the one you could count on to make you laugh when you were having a bad day! He will forever be remembered as the one with a smile that could light up a room.
