MICHAEL RAY BICKNELL

1956 - 2017

Michael Ray (Cease) Bicknell, 61, passed away June 1, 2017, following a nine-month battle with a brain tumor. Mike was born Jan. 17, 1956, in Topeka, KS. He grew up in the Kansas City area and graduated from Shawnee Mission South High School in 1974. He attended the University of Kansas in Lawrence, and graduated in 1982 with a degree in Business. For a few early years Mike was in the grocery business, where he earned the nickname "Birdseye." Eventually his passion for cars led him into the tire business, where he built a great career. Working for companies including Bridgestone, Pirelli, Denman, and Mitas, Mike traveled all across North America, making friends wherever he went. He lived for a time in Houston and in St. Louis, but always considered Kansas City home. He had a reputation as honest, hard- working, and lots of fun! Mike was currently working with Alliance Tire Group (ATG). Being sidelined from his work and travel was not easy for him. Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Lescard, father, Jack Bicknell, and sister, Lynda Bicknell Shinn. Surviving brothers are Jack Bicknell, Mark (wife Julie) Bicknell, and Ron Bicknell. Mike loved and was so proud of his son, Jason Bicknell, and Jason's husband, Charles. He was also an exceptional stepdad, and he shared his love with stepdaughter, Kate Roth, her husband Sean, and stepson Alex Montgomery. He took special delight in his grandson, Tucker Roth. Mike found his soul mate, Sheila, in Colorado, and they were married in 2009. Together they loved, laughed, traveled, and built a wonderful life. Mike always saw life as an exciting journey and he lived it to the fullest. He was the proverbial life of the party. Mike was loved by many, and he will be sorely missed. A celebration of Mike's life will be held on June 24. Contact family for details. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to Brain Tumor Alliance.