Today, Paddy and I were looking at a number of wonderful photos of Mike and it struck me that there was a lot of good living and a lot of love in his life. With and without photos we have memories of Mike and we will continue to share them in years to come.

I first met Mike when his family moved to Victoria and Mike was barely two years old. My first memory of him was his very clear pronunciation of our friend Jean's surname - VanCuylenborg. I was quite in awe of this cute toddler's command of the English language!

Our children spent a lot of time together. I remember Mike's very precise and patient approach to activities (lego in particular) and games. I think Mike had a sense of fair play at an early age - I don't remember squabbles at their games. In the summer we frequently took these pre-schoolers to Gonzales Beach. At the time we always called it Michael Miller's beach - we continue to do so, and now with particular affection.

Skiing at Mt. Washington and family baseball at Quimper Park - these were good times. Our families spent many summers at Parksville. I remember (now and probably then) with amusement, Mike and our daughter Jennifer roaring around the dusty field at Beach Acres demonstrating their driving skills. We might have been giving some instruction, but probably not!

When Mike was at university we continued to see him at family gatherings. He was a very determined young man as he successfully completed his degree. I'm sure that during these years he was not feeling as well as he would have us believe.

I will remember Mike for his keen mind, his wry sense of humour and quirky smile, his serious nature and his tremendous courage in his struggle with manic depression.

To Mike: Paddy and I are bicycling in "legs" across Canada. This trip is in your memory. We know that our Michael Angel will be riding with us

Love and peace be with you.

Joanie
Joan is a long time family friend