Julie and Family:I'm so sorry. I'm at a loss for words as I struggle to wrap my mind around this personally and imagine what you are going through right now. When the weather was nice I would always see Mike walking the dogs in the neighborhood and we would stop and chat, and lately over the last year or two we would often be working out together side by side (when i was at the gym). He was there everyday, and we would always talk about sports, and specifically the Chicago Blackhawks. We had some good and fun conversations. On a larger scale I will remember Mike for just his overall goodness, his kindness, and his caring, upbeat personality. It was infectious and everyone who he came in touch with is better because of it. As he helped you coach our daughters in softball ( a long time ago) he was so great with the kids, and those memories will live on. He truly was a coach and teacher, and he truly cared about everybody. It is always hard for someone on the outside to say or do anything to help or comfort you and your family. All I can say is that as someone who has gone through loss, and specifically someone who has gone through loss at this time of the year multiple times, I send my support and love and prayers to you. God and your love for one another will see you through. I hope that you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, and that you feel the love and support that you have from your family, your close friends and the community. My best memory of Mike is that he was just a good man, who made everybody's day a little better and a little brighter, and that is a legacy we should all hope to achieve.
Our thoughts and prayers and love are with you today and always.
Regards,
Chris Schmale and Family