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David Raffel
August 1, 2025
Mike was such a great human being, and an example of grace & genuine caring.
I learned a lot from Mike, and often use him as an example of how to treat others in a personal & professional manner. He was "old school", and would hand write thank-you notes and send them to you via snail mail. No email thank- you notes from Mike!
He was gone too soo, is greatly missed, but left a true legacy.
Richard Hartman
December 21, 2013
Michael was a person to model for one's life.
Bob Hartsook
August 20, 2013
Sorry to hear of Mike's passing. No nicer guy ever lived.
Rod Olsen
August 15, 2013
A great brother in Sigma Chi, who was always a wonderful example to all of us! Many fond memories of our time at KSU and Mike will be missed, until we meet again.
Dave Raffel
August 14, 2013
I will always cherish our friendship, and the Code of the West, which you lived by each day: 1.) Live each day with courage, 2.) Take pride in your work, 3.) Always finish what you start, 4.) Do what has to be done, 5.) Be tough, but fair, 6.) When you make a promise, keep it, 7.) Ride for the brand, 8.) Talk less and say more, 9.) Remember that some things aren't for sale, and 10.) Know where to draw the line.
You were, and are, a true "hero" in my life, and I am much better for you being in it. I hope to see you again down the trail.
Sheila Stout
August 12, 2013
I always enjoyed seeing Mike at Dayspring rehearsal and singing next to him on Sunday mornings. I will remember him as such a kind and gentle spirit. He always wore a smile, no matter what was going on in his life. When asked how things were going, he'd always say "livin the dream". He impacted so many lives in such a positive way and leaves behind a great legacy. Someday, I'll see you again my friend, and we'll both be livin the dream.
August 12, 2013
I met Mike through the American Red Cross. He was always so kind and had an easy going personality. Happy Trails, Mike.
Brenda Kirkland
Midland Empire Chapter of the American Red Cross
August 10, 2013
All honor to his name.
Jack Marker
Lake Tapawingo, Mo.
August 9, 2013
Mike was always so kind and gentle during our DaySpring years. He always had a smile and kind word for everyone. He loved laughing and enjoyed everyone's company. Here's to Livin the dream Mike. I will miss you and your wonderful smile!
Cindy and Kelsey Ralls
Gloria Rico
August 8, 2013
Mike had his Dad's wonderful sense of humor, his handsome looks, his tender heart...to think there's two of them together now, giving St Peter a hard time about keeping the gates open for us who are left behind. That Tarry family had some real jewels who made their mark in lots of our hearts.
Sherri Odell
August 8, 2013
There was never a truer "gentle man" than Mike....We met through his work at the American Red Cross, and he became a father figure to me in so many ways. I enjoyed our lunches together, and I always looked forward to getting a little note or encouraging card from him in the mail. His smile, his sly sense of humor, and his passion for his family & horses will be missed. Happy Trails, Mike - you were a true gentleman.
Dan Doty
August 8, 2013
Like most others I only knew Mike as a kind, friendly, and engaging man. We shared horse stories with each other at Rotary. So glad for his relationship with Jesus. Praying for you Darlene and family.
Susie Perkins
August 8, 2013
I will always remember Mike's smiling face at the Red Cross. So sad to hear of his passing. He was such a sweet man. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
J Stuart Hoffman
August 7, 2013
Mike was a true professional and served as an example for many in the fund development field. My thoughts and prayers go to Mike's family. He will be greatly missed.
Chrissie Palmore
August 7, 2013
I was so saddened to hear of Mike's passing and my heart is breaking for Darlene, Jeannie, Patt and Mike's daughter and grandchildren! We all met two years ago in Albuquerque for a family get-together for which I will always be grateful for! Lots of great memories and laughter! The only thing that brings me comfort is the thought of Mike's dad, 'Bub' and grandma Tarry waiting to take him home! Rest in peace, Mike! We love you
Vicki Casey
August 7, 2013
Bob and I enjoyed Mike so much when we were part of Dayspring. We always knew we could expect Mike to have a smile on his face whenever we met on Wednesday nights for practice. He had such a gentle spirit. Mike, we know your "livin the dream" now in heaven with our Lord and Savior. Thanks for your sweet sweet spirit!!!!
Steve Webb
August 7, 2013
Mike was an elite runner to say the least.
August 7, 2013
So sadden to hear of Mike's sudden departure, but happy trails to him in Heaven. I can see him huddled with Max Stratton, Dick Harp, James Jeffrey, Julian Dyke, LeRoy King, John Westbrook and a host of other FCA legends strategizing and recalling fond memories of those early FCA years. At the August, 1971 Estes Park conference, a young lady walked up to Mike on Sunday afternoon and asked, how can I be of help? Mike put her with Judy Hildebrand with the teenage girls, told me about her and Barbara and I have been married 41 years as a result. Mulvane and Pratt, KS, her hometown, are close. What a guy Mike was. I remember him brushing that blond hair back many times with his hand pondering the next move. To Darlene and his family, "Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his saints"...Psalms 116:15. May the Lord surround you with His love, comfort, joy and peace. We love you.
Wayne and Barbara Atcheson
Charlotte, NC
Mary Brock
August 7, 2013
I knew Mike only slightly through the Mid-America Chapter of Fundraising Professionals. I enjoyed his sense of humor and commitment to the profession.
Gene Rietfors
August 7, 2013
Mike was a special friend. Always with a ready smile, freely sharing encouraging words, and truly professional in his chosen vocation. There aren't many like him around any more.
Pamela Miller
August 7, 2013
Mike was a true gentleman who had a great sense of humor -- and a great sense of quirky! He was a dedicated professional who always focused on others. I too cherish my memories of Mike, including our monthly AFP Issues & Answers breakfast meetings that he hosted for us -- rain or snow or sunshine, the coffee was always ready. My thoughts are with all his family and friends. Thank you for sharing Mike with us all. His life is truly a gift.
August 7, 2013
i will always remember mike's great sense of humor and humble spirit. he blessed many people in fca and beyond. may his memorial service be filled with special moments. ken schmitz- waukesha, wisconsin
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