Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Michael Etzioni Obituary

ETZIONI, Michael Hillside Mortuary 800/576-1994

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Aug. 26, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Etzioni

Sponsored by Michael's brothers.

73 Entries

Linh Dinh

October 29, 2017

I did not know Michael personally. I was a friend of Shiri, his sister-in-law, during our residency together. I remember that he hosted their engagement party and was just so happy for them. At their wedding, he was the first to come down the aisle before his brother came out. I still remember how excited and proud he looked. It was so genuine that I could never forget it. Even 15 years later. And he was not shy about displaying his love for his brother. I've almost never seen anything like it.

I stumbled upon this page on accident, but after reading some of the comments, I know that he had a tremendously generous spirit, and this has just moved me, to the point of inspiring me to just be a better person to all those in my family and around me.

To the Etzioni family, I am sorry for your loss.
Thank you for sharing your memories, and know that he has affected people he has never met.

Ben Etzioni

April 8, 2013

Michael, I miss you as much today as the day you left us. Still can't watch a Michigan game without thinking about you or wishing you were there too. Even the best is less without you.

David Etzioni

November 26, 2012

I miss you Michael. The world would be so much a better place with you in it.

Batya T

May 1, 2012

Baruch Dayan HaEmet.
In searching for an old coworker, I came across this guest book for Michael. I don't really know what to say. I am very sorry to hear this news, Michael was such a nice person and seeing him at work (HOB) and working with him was a pleasure. He was always pleasant and always smiling. My condolences go out to his family.

Lou deBaca

October 18, 2011

I saw Amitai Etzioni at an embassy reception last week and waited until the crowds cleared to hand him a card and ask after Michael, who I had lost track of since Michigan Law. The Latino Law Students were so few, and Michael was always such an important part of our little group, quick with a smile and willing to pitch in on projects large and small. I was shocked to hear of his death. I have been thinking a lot about him this last week, and take solace in the oft-repeated adage that those we care about live on through our memories. He was always so proud of his father's work, and to me that made so much sense, as the Etzioni who taught me the most about community was Mike, during those years in Ann Arbor. He is missed.

Eric

June 24, 2010

I just discovered this horrible news. I met Michael in a summer program at the University of Washtington. Michael had a great sense of humor and was a joy to be around. I contacted him ocassionally and really had the highest regard for him.

My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

Yanjun Yan

September 13, 2009

I don't know Michael or his family personally, but I came across this site, and I was so moved by his meaningful presence in this world. My personal experience of losing young friends enabled me to appreciate what Michael's family and friends have been through.

No one can answer when and why a beloved person will leave us in the least imaginable way. What matters is not that her/his company can last till the end of our lives, but rather that her/his company, even for a short time, has sustained our lives. So many fond memories of Michael, which I gather from his family and friends' tributes, have made people, including me, more encouraged and grateful. Yes, the grief will finally be diluted so that people will live in the way that Michael would have wished for them, yet Michael will be missed for ever.

Brian Kramer

May 13, 2009

I just had a friend from Michigan Law School tell me about Mike's passing. Mike was a stalwart U of M Law grad here in Los Angeles, and I always greatly enjoyed running in to him which seemed to be every occassion there is to support the Law School. Whether it was a simple cocktail reception for recently admitted students, or something else, Mike was always there and had a great smile.

My deepest sympathies to his family. Mike loved life and his family and friends, his untimely passing makes us all stop and appreciate what have so much more.

Jay Yew

September 28, 2008

I was deeply saddened to recently hear of Mike's passing. I really hadn't been in contact with Mike regularly since our days as fraternity brothers at Michigan. But, I always remember him being so easy-going and congenial, moving easily amongst different groups or cliques, well-liked by all. Not particularly good at keeping in touch, I lost touch with Mike soon after graduation. Unbelievably, we randomly reconnected in the middle of a packed Rose Bowl Stadium on January 1, 2005 during the Michigan-Texas Rose Bowl Game. Speaking with Mike that day, it was as if no time had passed, and we were still back in the PKP house at Michigan. After asking about my life, the first thing he shared with me was about his family. He was clearly overflowing with enthusiasm and excitement and joy and love over his life, and especially, his first son, Max, who was to be a blessed arrival to his life just a few weeks later. Today, I am reading his last email to me from January 6, 2005. Despite his hectic work schedule and busy baby preparations, Mike wanted to get our families together so we could reconnect. I regret missing out on that golden opportunity. Truly, a people-person, Mike was a loyal Wolverine, a loyal friend, a wonderfully loyal family man... an example to admire and emulate in life. My deepest condolences to Lainie, his family & friends. God Bless...

David Etzioni

April 28, 2008

This past week has been especially tough. I think we all have expressed, and been consoled by the knowledge that grief comes in waves, sometimes deeper, sometimes less so.

Michael passed away two months and 3 days before his 39th birthday. This year, the first night of Passover was two months and 4 days before my 39th birthday. That I saw the next morning meant I lived longer than my beloved older brother. Yesterday I spent some time at Lainie’s home, going through Michael’s clothes, picking out some things that I thought might fit me. Today, at work, I am wearing a pair of Michael’s pants, one of Michael’s shirts.

I struggle to find some meaning to the fact that the angel of death passes over some and finds others. Do we all simply live in a world where the ones we love can be here today and gone tomorrow? Is this right? Is this fair? Why should I be here, and not Michael, not my Mother? There are no answers to these questions, I know. I feel very helpless in the midst of the chasm of grief that has opened in my life, and in the lives of Lainie and my Father, and in Michael’s children, and in each of us.

It’s too easy to say we need to enjoy life, love our families, and be there for each other through thick and thin. All that…should just be a given. But, is it? When I look at the faces of our family in pictures from before Michael passed away, there is, somehow, a difference. The smiles were wider, the laughing seems to have been more carefree. There is a pall that covers all of us that I feel very deeply, perhaps too deeply at times.

It is hard, at times, to cast off this gloom. Yesterday, going through Michael’s clothes, deciding that I wanted this shirt, that pair of pants, I couldn’t help but feel that the memory of Michael was being somehow dispersed, diffused…diluted over time. Is that part of the natural progression of grief, for the memories to become less intense, and the grief thereby not as painful? How is that different from forgetting?

I know that I will never forget Michael. I also know that in order to live, for whatever time period my life is to be, that I need to get out of my head and into my life. I need to smile as broadly and as readily as I used to.

I miss you Michael. Very much.

David Etzioni

August 25, 2007

I miss Michael. I really do.

In the past year, I have wondered what I would find to say on this day. I have had a year to think about it, and I am at a loss.

So what does it mean, that one year has passed? The Earth has gone completely around the sun, and we now find ourselves in roughly the same position in the heavens as we were on the day Michael left us. The Jewish calendar measures one year differently, by the cycles of the moon. So a year seems like such an arbitrary unit of measurement by which mark this occasion. What does one year passed mean?

One year has passed and it still seems like yesterday when I found out he passed away. I don’t think that there has been a waking hour in the past year where I haven’t thought about Michael. I my mind I can see him as vividly as a picture, with his enormous smile. I still have an image that I carry around with me, in my heart, of Michael on I on a park bench, watching our kids play together. As old men, watching our grandchildren play together.

The last year has been hard. For all of us. Not to have the wonderful light of Michael’s life in our own lives. For me, the best times have been the hardest times. I have felt overwhelming sorrow at something so sweet as watching Zachary and Max playing together. The first time I saw Maya Michaela, all I could think about was how proud Michael would be, how his broad smile would be beaming down on his little girl, and I felt…sad.

I have often thought about how much better these occasions of life, big and small, would be with Michael here. I have often thought that nothing has been as good as it is supposed to be. I have sometimes even thought that nothing will ever be as good as it should be. But that does not mean that nothing has been good, that there has been no sweetness. It does not mean that joy in our lives should be muted.

One year has passed, and the sharp pain I felt with Michael’s passing is not much less today than a year ago, and so I wonder about the appropriateness of this unit of measurement. A month, a year, 5 years, do these measures of time really have meaning when it comes to measuring grief?

But time does have meaning. The weeks, months, and years are like the metronome clicks by which we conduct our life’s music. I don’t know how much any of us can really choose our song, but I know that for me…it is time for me to find a new way to remember Michael. I need to be able to look at a picture of him and remember him rather than grieve him. I need to find a point where I can think of him and smile. I think Michael would want that for me. I think he would want that for all of us.

Bradley Davis

February 12, 2007

I just learned of Michael's passing today and I am deeply saddened. Although Michael and I did not meet until after law school at an alumni mixer, he became a valued client and friend. My prayers and condolences go out to his family and friends. Michael was a warm, wonderful person who will be truly missed.

Laura Freedman

February 3, 2007

I can't even remember how I met Michael, but he was in law school, and I was in med school. He came with me to the med school dances and remained a true friend over the years. He journeyed back to Michigan for my wedding and always made an effort to meet me for lunch when I was in LA. I can't believe that the last time we had lunch was over a year before he died. He joyously showed off pictures of Max and Lainie. He sent me birthday wishes on my birthday, and always sent holiday cards. I was so sorry to hear of this tragic loss and remain shocked by it. I echo all that has been written about Michael. He was truly a kind, warm hearted, caring man. My thoughts are with his family, Lainie, and his children.

George Ferreti

January 29, 2007

I just learned of Michael's passing yesterday. I met him at Michigan Law School. Although we did not know each other well, he was clearly a quality guy with a wonderful disposition. I extend my sympathies to his family.

Anonymous

January 23, 2007

We had fallen out of touch - I just learned of his passing. What a loss to all who loved him. Michael Etzioni was an unusually kind person who saw the best in people. So truly earnest and big-hearted. What a smile. Such a joker. So thoughtful and generous. What a great loss.

Anonymous Anonymous

January 19, 2007

I just heard about Michael. I knew him for a very short time, but still I am deeply saddened to hear of this news. We supported the same charity, and I could see that he was a selfless, caring and genuine person. I know that he will be greatly missed, and am pleased to know that his great legacy will continue on with his children.

Keith Fentonmiller

January 17, 2007

I just learned of Michael's passing today and am completely floored. Michael's death cannot extinguish the memory of his brilliant smile and enthusiasm. His years on this Earth were too short, but it is apparent from the love that surrounded him that he lived enough for ten lifetimes. Godspeed, Michael, and Go Blue!!

Laura Fentonmiller

January 17, 2007

I will never forget Michael's kindness to me when we were engaged in the stressful process of job hunting in law school. He was truly a good and special person, and I am shocked and deeply saddened by his premature depature from this world. My heart goes out to his wife and children, and the rest of his family and friends.

Gary Cohen

November 10, 2006

I was very saddened to hear about Mike's untimely passing in our fraternity newsletter. I had the pleasure of being in the same dorm as Mike our freshman and sophomore years at Michigan, then becoming fraternity brothers for the remainder of our time at Michigan. As many people here have already said, Mike was a great guy who seemed to always enjoy life. Mike was always upbeat and was there for people when they needed his help.

I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Mike's family. It is tragic to lose someone so young. I hope they can find some solace in the fact that Mike had a positive impact on the lives of so many people. He will truly be missed by all.

Phil Kain

October 31, 2006

Mike Etzioni was one of my closest friends. Mike was one of the clearest examples in my life of a person with a “normal range of emotions”. I have used him as an example in the past as someone who always made sound decisions, was naturally selfless and seemed to always have some level of emotional balance. It just seemed to come naturally to him. Yeah, he was a lot different than me. I learned so much from him.

Mike just called me a week ago to tell us the news that his wife Lainie was pregnant with their 2nd child. For this reason and many more, his sudden and unexpected death is a real tragedy.

Mike was a fraternity brother of mine at Michigan and we have been friends since 1988. He was much better than I am at keeping in touch, calling me every month or two, just to check in and see how I was doing. It was a pleasure to be his friend.

Every day, Mike is constantly with me, in my thoughts. We also keep Lainie and Max and their families in our constant thoughts and prayers. This is a very sad time, but one which hopefully will renew our focus to the real purpose for our existence. I am pretty low, but I know that we’ll get through this. I am in a lot of shock. I had a lot of memories planned for Mike and I and our families. Lots of Michigan football games.

Out of all the descriptive terms, if I had to pick one adjective to describe Michael Etzioni, it would be consistent. Michael was so consistent. He was consistent in all of his personal relationships. I never once wondered if Michael and I were still friends. From the moment we became friends in 1988, I knew that we were friends. I felt in every time that we were together. It was tangible and palpable. He had this inate ability to make me feel relevant.

When I say that I will always use Michael’s life as a benchmark for my own, I mean it. As long as I am alive, Michael will never be dead. His spirit will live and burn inside of me and literally hundreds of others, on a daily basis. He was a quiet hero in a world full of brash, percussive ones. He left the world and all of us better off. I feel very lucky to have known him as well as I did. I was the beneficiary of a tremendous personal education from Michael, and I will spend the rest of my life repaying him and the spirit of the universe for that gift.

Raj Desai

October 18, 2006

I was a friend of Michael’s while we were in graduate school in 1989-1991. I had lost touch with him in recent years, and was devastated to learn of his passing. Michael was a fellow dorm-resident and squash partner of mine for two years, and his warmth, charm, and humor are among the reasons I still cherish those years. I remember Michael fondly—particularly his friendship and his (often mischievous) sense of fun. I hope that the grief of the Etzioni family will be lessened by the support and thoughts of those who knew Michael.

Norda Kittrie

October 7, 2006

My mother called this evening to inform me of Michael's passing. This is too sad. I am heartsick. He & I were friends in high school. Michael's warm disposition & delightful sense of humor got us through years of Spanish class. We also carpooled together to Tae-Kwon-Do class. Our mothers were friends-- they were both Mexican.

We lost contact in recent years-- yet fond memories of a lovely fellow & a cheerful, thoughtful friend have remained in my heart for the past 2 decades. After reading these condolences, it's quite apparent that he shared many of the same fine qualities as his beloved mother. G-d bless them both.

Dearest Etzioni Family, my thoughts & prayers go out to you. May you derive comfort in sharing his memory and knowing that he touched all our hearts.

Warmest regards.

-------------------

“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose.
All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”
---- Helen Keller

-------------------

Berit Brevig

October 7, 2006

Michael's mother Minerva, was my best friend. I miss her very much - time has not healed. I loved her sons and she loved my two daughters; Elizabeth and Ingrid, my oldest son Kjetil and Chris, the baby who was born in 1978. All the memories - of the children, all so beautiful, together in New York and Aspen, Co. My heart is aching for Amitai, Oren and Benji.

Love, Berit, Per, Kjetil, Liz, Ingrid and Chris

Benjamin Etzioni

September 28, 2006

What would Michael do?

According to the U.S Constitution, “all me are created equal.” I’m sure history writers will agree that never applied to Michael Etzioni.

When he wanted to become a better photographer he got a camera, read a few books and started shooting world-class photos. When he wanted to play golf, he got the clubs and worked at his game until he became a pretty decent golfer. When he decided he wanted to have a career, he studied hard, got into the best schools in the country and succeeded with flying colors. There was nothing he could not do.

Having Michael as a brother was the best part of being in our family, but I’m ashamed to say there used to be times that I resented him for casting such a huge shadow over me.

During the days leading up to Michael’s funeral, a lot of his friends came up to me and asked me what they could do to help out. They just had to do something. I kept hearing them ask, “What would Michael do? What would Michael do?” Hearing those words reminded me of what it took for me to realize that Michael was casting such a big shadow over me not to steal my glory but to protect me from harm’s way.

A long time ago, when I was in grade school, I managed to find myself involved in a basketball showdown against a group of the school bullies. The only times before that I had even set foot on a basketball court were to get to the other side of the playground.

The night before the big game I walked upstairs and knocked on Michael’s door. When I went in I could tell he was studying hard, like he always did, for an important test. I asked him if I could borrow his basketball and he told me sure. I could tell he was curious as to why I wanted the basketball but he let it go and went back to his studying.

I was at the playground basketball court for maybe five minutes before Michael showed up and started giving me lessons. We were out there for quite a while going through every basketball drill he could come up with. When I got lazy and wasn’t giving it my all he yelled and stayed after me until I did things the right way.

I wish I could say that the next day I went out and was the star of the game. To be honest, I don’t even remember what happened, but what I will never forget is the love, support and the dedication – the right way of doing things – that Michael showed me that night. He was the best at everything he set his mind to. From being a loving father and husband to being a diligent and shrewd lawyer, he put everything he had into everything he did.

No matter what was going on in his life his family always came first. During our family conference calls he used to only talk about his career or his golf game or what was new in California. That all changed when Lainie came into his life.

He would spend all his time talking about her and we would have to pry to get information about anything else in his life. I thought right then that Lainie would always be the most important thing in his life. Then Max came along.

Every time I went to visit him, looking at Max, Michael would always ask me, “So what you think? Is he a keeper?” There was just so much excitement and pride and joy in his voice every time he talked about his little boy. He was born to be a father.

If had one last chance to tell my Michael something it would be this:

You have the warmest shadow of anyone I will ever know. Your wife and children will never be alone. I’ve learned my lesson. I will live the rest of my life by the words, “What would Michael do?” I will love you always.

Your brother,
Ben

Adam Lilling

September 27, 2006

Mike was a fraternity brother, a roommate in LA, and a dear, dear friend. Always there for you but, more importantly, there for you before you needed to ask.

You could have known him for an hour and considered him a friend, not an acquaintance.

Mr. Etzioni's words from the funeral are still the most appropriate description of his life..."Mike's heart beat for everyone else until no beat was left for himself."

I'm sorry Lainie, Max, and "TBD". I'm sorry Amitai, Ethan, Oren, David. I really am...for all of us.

Jeff Alperin

September 26, 2006

I am so saddened to hear of Michael's passing. I was lucky to have been randomly assigned to live with him during our first year of law school, and the memories of that year are etched in my brain like they were yesterday. I could not have asked for a better roommate and friend. He was so smart and so hard-working, yet he was also always willing to share a smile and a game of darts. Over the years, we drifted apart, but, when I was in L.A. a few years back, we went out for dinner, and our friendship was like an old glove -- there were no rough edges, and it was easy to slip back on as if no time had passed. He introduced me to Lainie, and their love for each other was so obvious and strong that it nearly lit up the room. My heart goes out to her and all of Michael's family -- I am so sorry. He was a wonderful person, and he will be missed. We were all blessed to have known him.

Karey Menagh Davis

September 19, 2006

Michael was such a beautiful person. I only met him one Thanksgiving at Betsy and Cliff's, but I remember being taken aback at how kind and good-natured he was. There was wonderful glow about him and I'm sure I'm not the only one who felt it. He always took a sincere moment to ask me how I was doing when he'd telephone to speak with his father at work. People with good hearts surely go to a beautiful life beyond ours here on earth.

There is a special place in my heart for Michael's family's loss. When my father died suddenly while my mother was pregnant, it really shook our family. Thankfully, Michael's family is supportive and strong and hopefully you can take comfort in each other.

Stacey Gilman

September 18, 2006

I was privileged to meet Michael as a fellow law student at Michigan and also to work with him at Latham in Los Angeles (he was instrumental in helping me choose the firm when I was a third year law student and he was a first year associate). I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to Michael's family and friends. He will be missed.

Eugene Whitlock

September 17, 2006

Michael was my unofficial mentor when I was a naive, scared first year law student. He went out of his way to help me with my school work, review my resumes, giving me interview tips and endless advice anytime I asked. I hold him largely responsible for the success I enjoyed because without him, I would not have been put on the right path. He made my first year of law school so much better and I cannot imagine to have gone through it without him. I often think of him when taking the time to help and guide other people whenever I can. I am and will be eternally grateful for the guidance Michael offered and the example he set and the best way for me to honor his memory is to simply do what he did: take the time to help someone else.

Jodi Cohen

September 14, 2006

Michael will be sorely missed. He was a rare gem of a friend who always had a bright smile and a willing ear and never forgot to make time for the people in his life. He was the first friend to call me after Sept. 11 (when I was living in NY) and usually the first email of the day remembering my birthday. The last time we spoke, he raved about his son and sent many adorable pictures. It breaks my heart that his children did not have more time their amazing father. I am so deeply sorry for this tremendous loss.

Lisa Krueger Khan

September 12, 2006

I knew Mike in law school. I cried when I heard of his passing, learned of his wife and children, and read the wonderful memories and tributes to him. My heart aches for his family. I will fondly recall my memories of Mike as a smart, hard-working,happy person who brightened one's day when he was near.

name withheld

September 9, 2006

I knew Mike in passing at law school, a friendly face that I greeted in the halls. I was surprised to hear of his passing, and after reading these entries from family and friends, wish that I had taken the time to know him better. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends; he was clearly loved.

Bradley Cohn

September 9, 2006

Mike, thank you for making our lives better, and for leading by example. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

Liz Rosenfeld

September 9, 2006

In law school, we were defined by sections. Mike was not in mine. However, he was one of those students whose friendship extended beyond sections. He always had a welcoming smile on his face, and, even at the last law school reunion, when I had not seen him in 10 years, he reached out to me as a friend. At that time, he impressed me with how happy he was with his work, his marriage, and his life. I hope that it is of some small consolation that his was a life lived well and that he was well-liked and respected by his peers. My sincere condolences.

September 8, 2006

I was in Michael's clas at the University of Michigan Law School. I remember him as a respectful, thoughtful and articulate person. The words of his father and brother moved me to tears -- I extend my deepest sympathy to Michael's entire family.

~Jill Eskin Major HaLevi (Charleston, SC/ Jerusalem, Israel)

Sarah Hays

September 7, 2006

Michael and I became friends when I was a temp at House of Blues and he was a lawyer. He reached out to me inspite of our difference in rank, and we became lunch buddies over the years. Long after I left HOB to pursue my music career, he supported my music, made me laugh, and bought me Sharkey's burritos when I was hungry. He was truly a gem, and my heart broke at the news of his passing.

Michael called me the day before he died to wish me well on the release of my first full length cd and to express his regret at not being able to attend the show because he wanted to be home with Lainie. He died later that night. I can only pray for his family to find peace in the midst of this tragedy. My thoughts are with you all.

Josh Newman

September 7, 2006

I have just learned of Michael's passing, and am profoundly shocked and saddened. Etzi and I were roommates in the Phi Psi house at U of Michigan. Living in such close quarters, I got to know him very well and considered him a close friend. Although we lost touch after undergrad, I still remember his contagious laugh and constant good cheer. He had a kind spirit and a gentle soul. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

Daniel Cohen

September 7, 2006

In law school Michael was always very thoughtful, very funny and had a wonderfully positive outlook. I am sorry we lost touch after law school and saddened that we will never have a chance to catch up.

Mary Bernard

September 7, 2006

I was fortunate to be a law school friend of Mike's and have some fond memories of him. He was a smart classmate and worked hard to do his best, yet he also managed to enjoy life and have some fun. I am sad to hear of his passing and hope that he rests in peace. My prayers are with his family and friends.

Nader Boulos

September 7, 2006

As I reflect on memories of Mike from law school, in literally every one I picture him smiling. I am so truly saddened by this loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Steve Mellen

September 7, 2006

I remember Michael as one of the nicest, most personable friends I had in law school, someone who made life a little more enjoyable just by being around. My deepest sympathy to all his family and friends.

Dirk Tischer

September 7, 2006

I had the opportunity to be one of Michael's friends in law school. Michael's high character, unassuming brilliance and passion are an example for everyone who knew him. Moreover, amid all his success, he would always make time for his friends. Memories of his easy going humor and friendship are high points in my recollection of school. My sympathy and prayers go out to his family.

Joe Grekin

September 7, 2006

Law school was a long time ago now, but I still remember that Michael was always nice to everyone, and a pleasure to know. My best wishes and deepest sympathies to all of his loved ones.

September 6, 2006

I worked with Michael at O'Melveny & Myers over the summer during law school. He was a great guy; we were friends; we completely fell out of touch for no good reason. I had recently thought about him, wondering where he was. My heart goes out to his family.

Karin Schwartz

September 6, 2006

I was so deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Michael's passing. He was truly a unique person, who was always so warm, genuine and welcoming to everyone he encountered. It was such a joy to see such a devoted husband and father. Whenever I saw Michael, I was immediately greeted with his infamous smile and a big hug. Knowing Lainie since our high school days, I can attest that Michael brought out the best in her, and was truly her perfect/other half. My deepest condolences to Lainie, Max, Baby #2, and to Michael's entire family. He will never be forgotten!

Geoff Cline

September 5, 2006

I've now spent the better part of the week thinking about Michael and how he lived. Passionately. Joyfully. Athletically. A bit mischieveously. As a colleague, he was generous with his time and knowledge. I truly enjoyed working with him.

To Lainie, Max and Michael's family, we wish you peace, health and happiness. Knowing that you were certain of Michael's love and devotion to you all and that you have many fond memories to comfort you in these difficult time provides some solace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Geoff Cline & Sallie Trout

Michael and Lainie August 21, 2006

September 5, 2006

Robyn Abraham

September 4, 2006

Michael was a most special man. He will be missed by all who knew him.

marta martin amos

September 2, 2006

i was a client of lanies' at abrams artists a few years back. she was a great, supportive agent who knew exactly what to say to make me feel better when i was down on the biz. i missed her a lot when she left but was thrilled to hear she was starting a family. i found out about michael's passing through my brother, ed martin, who worked with him at HOB. please tell her that my heart aches for her loss and she is very much in my thoughts. thank you, marta martin amos

Jeffrey Roberts

August 31, 2006

I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Michael at House of Blues. A wonderful colleague who will be missed. My heart goes out to his family.

David Etzioni

August 31, 2006

These are my words from Michael's funeral. I miss you so much.

I’m David Etzioni. For my whole life Michael was my big brother.

I can’t remember a time when Michael wasn’t looking after me. From the start, as kids playing in the park, he defended me against the playground bullies. He was my protector, my role model, my confidante. He was a great big brother. People were always drawn to Michael, to his warmth, his welcoming sense of humor, and the sense that Michael was someone who was always going to do the right thing. More than he ever knew, I grew up always wanting to be like him.

Being a big brother is a job that Michael took very seriously.

After spending many years geographically separated from each other, I followed him West to Los Angeles. On moving here, he welcomed me with a party, and on every day since then we grew closer and closer. Coming over to see Michael and Lainie was always a comfort and a joy. When Michael would greet you, he had a big smile and an enormous hug. When he put his arms around you it was like he was giving your whole life a hug.

Michael was always so proud and happy whenever things went right.

When Shiri and I got engaged, another party. At my graduation from my surgical training program, he was there, front row, beaming so brightly you would think I was his son. He videotaped the whole thing so that my father, who could not be there, could also share in that joy.

If there was a problem in your life, talking with Michael made you feel like it was his problem too.

In my second year here in LA, I stuck myself with a needle from a patient with hepatitis. Michael was there in a heartbeat to shake me out of my deepest funk, to distract me, to listen to me, to convince me that no matter what it was going to be OK.

Michael wasn’t just a big brother to me. Anybody who knew Michael for long enough knows what a great big brother he could be.

Ted, do you remember when you got into Columbia business school? There Michael was, on the phone, singing the Columbia fight song. He got his hands on a copy of the words; didn’t know the melody, had never heard the song….couldn’t really sing, but there he was anyway, your biggest fan.

Heather and Gary – need I say more? He loved bringing people together.

Nancy, how many times did Michael spend time with you on the phone counseling you about problems you were having at work?

Michael took such great pleasure in helping the lives of the people around him to be fulfilled. And the thing about Michael is that he took care of his life with such careful planning and attention to detail that he never really needed much help from anyone. If you did manage to find some small way to help him his sense of gratitude was so enormous.

As I look around the room, I see that in one way or another, Michael was a big brother to all of us. We have all lost our big brother.

Lainie, I know you say that Michael brought out the best in you, made you a better person. You also made Michael shine. He loved you so much. You gave him a place to call home. I can still remember him on your wedding day – in his tuxedo, whirling, organizing, directing – he looked like a conductor playing his favorite piece of music. You both were so radiant and happy on that day. Your strength of character, your warmth, your quickness to find joy in life captivated Michael. You helped him become the person he was meant to be.

And together, you two become parents to little Max. As a father, Michael was a natural. It was like he was waiting his whole life to be a father.

Do any of you remember how much Michael used to love golf? He was out every weekend, taking lessons, calculating his handicap. He loved to golf. With fatherhood approaching Michael -- with his infinite sense of planning and realism -- knew that there were only so many hours in the day. And before Max was born, golf just quietly went away. That was Michael; there was no sense that he was sacrificing anything, only a pure knowledge of what was the right thing to do.

And he was such a great father. Before Zachary, my son, was born I was actually a little intimidated by how good he was. He had so perfected his approach to everything from how to change diapers to the best kind of car seat. Max’s stroller was like a well-stocked office supply room. With all this, you might think that Michael sounds a little mechanical, but nothing could be farther from the truth. He was so good with Max. He was loving, we was doting, and he could be so goofy. When he played peek-a-boo with Max his whole face lit up. People would turn to watch this big goofy guy making faces at his giggling boy. He was so looking forward to being a father again.

Over the past few days I’ve been struggling to make sense of what happened to Michael. I’ve spoken with the doctors that have tried to find out why Michael passed away so suddenly. They say that there may have been something wrong with his heart. But I know that can’t be right. I know there was nothing wrong with his heart. Michael had a wonderful heart.

Michael, I loved being your little brother. I looked forward so much to sharing the rest of my life with you. We were going to watch our children grow up together. We were going to dance together at our childrens’ weddings. We were going to be grandparents together. We were going to be old men together. The years ahead have become so much sadder with your untimely passing, Michael.

Lainie, the loss that I feel is unmeasurably small compared with what you and your children have lost. The amazing light that came from Michael’s heart has left us. I’ve heard you say Lainie, that this is the darkest hour of the darkest day of your life. I won’t even try to convince you that that’s not true. I can only tell you that the light from Michael’s life will be reflected in all of our faces back into the lives of you and your children forever. Every day your life will be bathed in that light.

The only thing Michael would ever ask of us is that.

Diana Winkelman

August 31, 2006

It was an honor attending the Celebration of Michael’s life - he was such a fine young man who touched the lives of all who knew him. Michael was so proud of his family. He was a devoted husband to Lainie and a loving father to his young son, Max. Michael’s untimely passing has filled my heart with profound sadness.

Although, I had not worked with Michael for six months, I would still visit at the office and I always enjoyed talking with Michael. I have been grieving his loss and praying for his family.

My sincerest condolences to Lainie, Mr. Etzioni and the entire Family.

Oren Etzioni

August 30, 2006

I spoke to Michael around 4:15pm on Wednesday afternoon. He got my dad and I into a conference call and was doing one of the many things Michael did so naturally and gracefully---asking us about ourselves, making us laugh, and trying to figure out the next family get-together. He sounded so happy, so satisfied, so carefree. How could we possibly lose him? Such a precious soul.

When I needed legal advice (a company wouldn't pay me a consulting fee), Michael immediately jumped in---no matter how busy he was, no matter how unpleasant the task---he wasn't going to let them get away with unethical behavior, especially against his brother. To make a long story short, they paid up. And that's the tip of the iceberg of what I owe Michael.

Before every family meeting, I could count on an email from Michael: what should I bring the boys? What are they into?

We sat around the table tonight remember Michael and Noah reminded us of how he would pull coins out of his ear. He would strain, and bend his neck, and out would pop a quarter and his trademark grin. The boys were at an age where they absolutely loved it. He was the ultimate uncle.

At his funeral someone said that whereas some are good fathers, good husbands, or good friends, or good brothers, or colleagues, Michael was all of the above and then some.

After our grandmother's 100th birthday, I got to spend a few wonderful days with Dad, Lainie, Max and Michael in Berlin. I got to know Max (what a wonderful, easy going kid) and it's no surprise---Lainie and Michael were naturals as parents. They parented as a team and it clearly brought their marriage to new heights. I am inspired to be more like Michael and know that I won't succeed fully, but there is one thing I swear here on the Internet, in my heart, and to anyone who will listen: I will be the ultimate uncle to your children Michael! I will do for them anything and everything in my power.

I miss you so much Michael.

Karen Gavender-Acker

August 30, 2006

Michael is one of my best friends husbands. I feel so blessed to have been a part of his life. Michael's smile and light will live on in our memories, in our hearts and in his children's eyes. Michael we love you and miss you terribly. We promise to take care of Lainie and to shower her Max and baby #2 with love.

Brandon Steele

August 30, 2006

You cannot replace a Michael Etzioni and I will miss him always. He was the type of friend that only comes along a few times in your life. I like to believe we are spiritual beings having a human experience, and therefore I look forward to teeing off with him down the road!

Kim Sandorf

August 30, 2006

Lainie and Michael have been friends with me and my husband Jeff for several years. We have spent numerous occasions with them including their wedding and our wedding, birthdays, New Years, travel and holidays. It will never be the same nor feel the same without Michael. We both are so deeply saddened that it's too painful to even admit. You will never be forgotten Michael. We love you Lainie and will always be here for you, Max and baby.

Larry Gadd

August 30, 2006

I am deeply saddenned by the loss of Mike. I knew Mike as a fraternity brother and classmate at the University of Michigan. He had a kind and fun spirit that lit up a room whenever he was around. I will always cherish my memories of Mike and those days. Like everyone whose life he touched, Mike will forever be with me and his memory will always bring a smile to my face.

Eric Biegansky

August 30, 2006

I had the privilege to have Michael as my close friend, beginning with our days together at Phi Kappa Psi at the University of Michigan. I will always cherish my memories of "Etzi" as a man of unparalleled integrity, goodness, generosity of spirit, and compassion, not to mention a lot of fun to be around. The best way I commit to honor his memory is by committing myself to becoming a better man as a tribute to him. Every time I make a decision in life, I will ask "WWED?" what would Etzi do?, since he always did the right thing.

Mike & his Phi Psi Fraternity Brothers at Mike & Lainie's Wedding

August 30, 2006

Ana and Mark Burkhart

August 29, 2006

We cherish the last time we saw Michael in June 2006, at Gary Ignatin's birthday party in Newport Beach, Ca. He enjoyed good friends, stories about life, and fun. The way life ought to be.

His excitement for life was evident, in his photographs, at a fireside chat and his evident love for Lainie, Max, family and friends---and believe it or not, his legal profession.

Both Mark and I were completely shocked. Angered. Mournful. Sad.

We trust that Max and his sibling will come to understand their father’s greatness.

To Lainie and all of Michael's family and friends, you can always count on us to remember Michael.

Love,

Ana and Mark Burkhart

David Hooper

August 29, 2006

Michael Etzioni and I were best friends. We met at the University of Michigan about 20 years ago. I had the honor to give a eulogy for him. We have lost one of the warmest, kindest, smartest, most compassionate men on earth. I am devastated. We will never forget you, Mike.

Scott Neisch

August 29, 2006

I am very saddened to learn of the passing of Michael. I knew him from my first two years at the University of Michigan. I have some fond memories of those years hanging out with Michael in West Quad. I regret losing touch with him. I would like to express my deepest sympathies to his family.

Ethan Etzioni

August 29, 2006

Michael had a good heart and a big smile, he was a good listner and offered solid advice. His friends problems were his. His heart beated for them until there were no beats left for himself. I miss Michael so much. Michael was loved and appreciated by all his friends and family 600 of which attended his funeral on Sunday. Michael's brother, Ethan

amitai etzioni

August 29, 2006

a father could not have asked for a better son; a son--for a better father; a spouce for a better partner; and a friend for a more loyal friend. His heart beat for everyone until no beat was left for him.

Michael's father, Amitai Etzioni

Valerie Kelly

August 29, 2006

Michael = Big Heart

When I think of Michael, I think of a kind warm person with an amazingly huge smile. Come to think of it, I don't ever think I've seen him without his super grin. He touched many lives and will truly be missed. My deepest sympathies to Lainie and his family. He left us too early and will watch over us all till eternity.

Norman Gutmacher

August 29, 2006

I first met Michael and Laine about two years ago, at the Grand Opening of the House of Blues, Cleveland, Ohio. I had the privilege of working with him prior to and after our meeting. He was a very nice person, and a bright and savy lawyer. His untimely passing is a great loss.

Jenny Ross

August 28, 2006

I was deeply saddened to hear of Michael's recent passing. Michael was a great friend and confidant. Michael was always looking out for others, a true giver. Michael brought a smile to all who knew him. He was full of life and love. I will miss him dearly. I feel so fortunate to have known him. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends, as I cannot even imagine the grief that they are experiencing. I will keep Michael and his family in my prayers always!!!

August 28, 2006

Jeffrey Sandorf

August 28, 2006

My wife Kim and I had the pleasure of being friends with Lainie and Michael. Michael was a true one of a kind. His integrity, kindness and generosity was never out of convenience, it was constant, it's who he was. He always gave of himself with absolutely no thought of receiving anything in return. I will miss him dearly.

Kathleen Lilly

August 28, 2006

I am deeply saddened about Michael's passing. Michael was a great friend and mentor, and I will miss him dearly. I only wish that I spent more time with him when he was here in our offices. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends, as I cannot even imagine the grief that they are experiencing. I will keep Michael and his family and friends in my prayers.

Nicole Burnham

August 28, 2006

I'm so sorry to hear about Michael's passing. We were good friends in law school and spent many evenings watching movies together or hanging out at the front desk. He had an amazing mind, a knack for seeing the humor in every situation, and was the first to call someone when he thought they might be feeling down. I know he will be missed, and extend my deepest sympathies to his family.

Deborah Stussman

August 28, 2006

I had the honor and pleasure of working with Michael at House of Blues. He was an incredible man whose smile, kindness and laughter will be missed terribly. My love and sympathy to his family and friends.

Brian Kelly

August 28, 2006

My deepst sympathy on the loss of Michael. I attended Michigan Law School with Michael, where we played raquetball regularly. I will remember Michael as an honest person, an aggressive competitor and a good friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to Michael's family.

Showing 1 - 73 of 73 results