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Michael Janda Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Janda
Conrad P. Loehlein
October 27, 2022
My friend for many years. Still thinking of you brother.
Patricia & Donald Janda
May 2, 2005
On the 4th of April, the one year anniversary of our Michael's death, we drove to Bourbon, Indiana to see Hugh, Jill, Emma and Sean Michael. Sean was Christened on April 3rd and we were the Godparents. Hugh and Jill arranged it so it would coincide with the anniversary. As Hugh said, when he asked us to be the Godparents, "That way, you'll get Michael back." Sean Michael was named after his Uncle and he was born on November 20, 2004. He was also named after Jill's dear brother, Sean, who died years ago in a auto accident.
On Monday, April 4th, Hugh and Jill arranged a special mass in honor and memory of Michael at a tiny Catholic church in Bremen, Indiana. Hugh, Don and I attended and two other ladies we did not know. It was held at 7:30 AM. Originally, the priest, Father Polycarp Fernando, told Hugh he would be away on the 4th and as he is the only priest at that small church the normal 5:30 PM mass on Mondays would not be held. He was leaving in the afternoon for a conference. Hugh said he looked at Father and said, "But, Father, you have to --he's my brother." Father looked at him for a long moment and then said yes, he would celebrate a 7:30 AM mass for Michael. As far as we know, this was the first time there was a mass in the morning at that church on a Monday, rather than in the evening. It meant so much to us and we will never forget it. I sent a note to him to tell so.
Then, a day later, we drove to Topeka, Kansas to see Chip, Terri, Taylor, Camden and Greyson. They were unable to attend the Christening, but they were with us all in spirit and prayer. It was a bittersweet journey for us this trip. The longing in our hearts for Michael has not lessened and I do know now that it never will. We have a great deal to be thankful for with our wonderful, kind and loving family. Michael's precious children, Alyssa and Travis. Oh, how proud he always was of both of them. He was a loving father and they miss his so. They are a real credit to him. One day I will write a story about Michael. Others need to know what a good man he was. He was truly "The Good Samaritan". He cared for people, not only in words, but in deeds.
The week before he died, the two of us had a very long conversation, about an hour and a half. We just talked and talked. He read his poems to me and we laughed over things that happened in the years gone by. At one point, he said, "You know, Mom. I've always been so proud that you're my mother." Those words are carved in my heart. I will always be grateful to God that we had that long conversation. He was always one to say "I love you" and tell us everything - good or bad - that was happening in his life. But that day, well, thank you God, not only for our long visit on the phone, but for the 47 years we had our son. No one ever loved a son more than we love Michael and our Hugh and Chip.
Mother and Dad
Matt Guthrie
December 20, 2004
Was deeply saddened to hear about Mike's passing. Having no contact for over 30 years, the memories of Mike are still clear. We had a blast playing baseball in the Janda's side lot, always grinning, we got on well. Hello Chip and Hugh! At 11 years old, I sensed Mike's spirit as desiring something more than what K3, Illinois provided us, though it certainly provided a base that we carry now.
I knew and saw the passion burning in Mike, found it admirable and comforting. The circumstances of friends and family going in their separate directions, are unclear to me now, but natural. My understanding that this is true to Mike, as he went his way, and naturally.
Carole and Rod Guthrie
December 19, 2004
At a time when Rod and Don both worked for Roper in Kankakee, we were in the throes of raising boys. Our son Matt was about Michael's age and we shared lots of similar experiences. I remember Michael as a darling fellow with a mind of his own! He was a real character. He grew into a caring man, as all the testimonials in this guest book have revealed. We lost track of him, as we moved to New England, but now the memories of him and his parents have come flooding back today...
Patricia & Donald Janda
November 20, 2004
Today is a very special day. Michael has a new nephew, son of Jill and Hugh,named Sean Michael Janda. His name was chosen in memory of Jill's brother, Sean, who passed away from an auto accident several years ago and Michael. We all know how proud Michael would be to have his brother's child named after him. Hugh loved Michael very, very much (as all of us did and do) and Hugh said he was always so happy to have Michael as his best man in his wedding. So today, Sean Michael's birthday, we thank God for this wonderful baby boy and for the uncle he was named after.
Patricia & Donald Janda
May 18, 2004
To our family and dear friends: Michael's Guest Book will continue for one year, until May 9, 2005. These testimonials to his life keeps him among us. Our gratitude to all those who have shared their
thoughts. We will never forget what you have said.
Patricia & Donald Janda
May 11, 2004
The messages in Michael's Guest Book have touched our hearts. It has been a great comfort to read them and to know how much our son was loved. Thank you to all who have written. We will treasure your words always. Pat and Don Janda
Bob and Toni Patterson
May 4, 2004
Michael, we remember you were a Mets fan. (you hadn't become a biker yet) We imagine you up there as one of the Mets star players.
You and your family were the dearest neighbors and friends we ever have had. We will never forget that.Our hearts go out to your family Michael because we know how they hurt because of their loss but it is only temporary because you will all be together again some day.
We believe that you live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew you. THe Patterson's
Aames Home Mortgage
May 4, 2004
Our Hearts & Prayers are with all of you.
Lonny Douglas
May 3, 2004
Sitting in the garage on mason street having a smoke and a beer,working on panhead with Bob Seger blastin in the background.The Ex-Cop and the Outlaw biker.Certain circumstances in my life had left me homeless and you'll never guess who took me in fead me and put a roof over my head.
I was fascinated with Mikes lifestyle. His home was a piece of Americana. The walls were half covered with posters of motorcycles,musicians and road maps. A lot of the maps detailed his love of the hiwayand the trips he had taken and planned to take.
Then there were the stories of his adventures and the people he had touched and been touched by.Heck Jaque Cousteau and the Calypso had nothing compared to Him.
Mike, we stood together at Custers last stand.
We crossed the Great Divide together
I'm sure our paths will cross again. Ilove Ya Bro, Lonny
George and Joni Allen
May 3, 2004
How can one express the loss of a child, no matter their age. Michael made his mark in life by being well loved. We have never met any of Pat & Don's boys, but knew they had to be very special. Our thoughts and love are with his family.
Dakota Hardin
May 1, 2004
Dear Uncle Mike,
Uncle Hugh has told me a lot about you.I still remember when you came over to my Grandmas house for Thanksgiving. I'm sure Travis learned alot from you... but don't worry he will be just fine.
Love,
Michiana Brits Car Club
May 1, 2004
Our deepest sympathy to Hugh and the Janda Family on their loss. You are in our prayers.
Steve Welker
May 1, 2004
It saddens me to be writing this. I was beside myself when I got Hugh's news of Mike. I guess you can never be fully prepared for such things. I can only imagine the family's grief. I know the loss and grief I feel and I do believe blood is thicker than water. Trying to think of the good times...we had a lot of them. You know me and Mike never really saw things eye to eye for a long time, maybe really never. I don't understand how people can be so different, but still be made out of the same cloth in so many other ways. I'm gonna miss him. He always called me Bro. Mike was real big on taking pictures. He left me a few. He also left me a model of a Harley that my grandkids would just love to have. It's in need of repairs and it's now on my list of things to get done. My son and I will call Travis and Alyssa. Trav just kind of worked his way into our hearts more, because we knew him better. Good kid. Smart, too. I'm really not real good with words, and I don't believe there are any words to express how we feel. I believe Mike is at "peace" and he would want us to be. When I hear a Harley, or hear certain songs, or look at a sunset, or watch a cowboy movie, I'll think of Mike. He was real big on Clint Eastwood. I don't know what else to say, but Mike was every bit as good of a friend to me, as I ever was to him, maybe more so. I'll pray for all of you. Love, Steve
Emma Janda
May 1, 2004
I never got the honor to meet my Uncle Mike.....I'm just 1 year old.
But my Daddy told me all about him and my Uncle Chip. He told me some really funny and real neat stories about growing up with two fantastic brothers. The Forts they built, the G.I. Joe's they played with, the 37 Rock Bass they caught in Wisconsin one summer, the cornfields they set on fire, the Rock Concerts they went to, the yellow Mini-bike they had and Herbie the dog. Daddy said that Herbie would be waiting for Uncle Mike at the gate and Mr. St. Peter's house up on Cloud Drive.
Well I sure hope you don't get in any trouble riding your loud motorcycle up and down Cloud Drive
Uncle Mike, you know Angels have to take naps too ! Save a sidecar ride for me someday, okay ? Love you, your niece, Emma XOXO
Dennis Sheppard
April 30, 2004
Mike was the first person I met when I moved to the State of Washington. He was also the FIRST soul to believe in me and offer a hand when no one else would. Everyone turned me away...but not Mike. I'll never forget that, ever. Mike said that we were the same, both from the streets, and with that I moved in. The next day we took my bike off the back of my truck and Mike told me to park it in the garage, next to Panhead. I lived with Mike and Travis and they welcomed me into their home, like family. I'll never forget Mike's relentless spirit, from job to job and from glory to defeat. We shared countless street stories, laughs and tears. He introduced me to his partners, who are now lifelong friends....his extended family. You see, I didn't just know Mike, I knew Mike. All his stories of his family, near & far. He was a soldier of the highway, and a soldier of life. It's amazing how much you can learn from people in your life. I learned alot from Mike... some good and some bad but, through it all, I learned about myself and friendship.You see, most, if not all the people you meet in life are associates. Only a very, very few are real friends. I'd like to always know that Mike was part of that chosen few....my Real Friend! I miss you man, I miss you so much.
I'll see you on the other side...I've still got your back.
My condolences to all the Janda's.
The Jean O'Donnell Illingworth Family
April 28, 2004
With love and condolences.
Alyssa Janda
April 27, 2004
Mike was my daddy and I was his little girl "dumpett". Ive always admired my dad. I always wanted to hang out with him wether it be playing with the dogs or pretending to work on the bike with him, even on top of roofs throwing nails at him. I remember one x-mass all I wanted was a swing-set. I would look all over for a big box or somekind of clue but there was nothing. Well x-mass morning comes we open all of our presents which were all really great they always were, but no swing-set. So my dad asks "whats wrong dumpett?"as he puts together Travis's yearly race car set:) I said nothing he replys the dogs need to be fed why dont you go feed them. So I get the food and hop out to the backyard and to my surprise there it is, a huge swing-set!! I was so happy!! He told me he'd stayed up all night building it. It was the best X-mass Ive ever had! I only hope I can give my children the same happiness he gave me. I love my father very much. He's had the most influence on me in my life. Hearing all of his awesome stories growing up gave the courage to go out and experience life for myself. He's the reason I travel, he's the reason I have a No Worry look on life, he's the reason Im not afraid to fix things or say out loud what Im really think and to be proud of my opinions and accomplishments no matter how big or how small they are, he's also the reason I see life for what it is and not to be all caught up in mainstream and materialistic things that can cloud up all the simple pleasures like a sky full of stars, the wind in your hair or a really great song you can relate too. Im an "old soul" because my father taught me and showed me life. Sure we bumped heads sometimes, but like I always said to him "you were a hellraiser as am I, after all paybacks a you know what" My father was like noone Ive ever met and Im so proud to be his daughter as is Travis to be his son and through us his spirit will live on. We miss and Love you DAD.
sissy davis
April 26, 2004
Being a wild child of the 60's, and Mike's cousin, I could always relate to his lifestyle. it was not unusual for kids to leave home back in that era ,in search of a dream, a feeling of freedom, a sense of adventure and quest for something more. Mike lived by his own rules and was brave enough to break with convention and the rules of society. But i could still always still see the little boy in Mike..still wanting something more out of life. mike did not seperate himself from his family after he left. i would always wait expectantly for Aunt Patsy's stories of what Mike was up to ! I hope that Mike now is up in heaven , on a big Harley ,looking down on us all with that captivating smile of his . Love you , Mike , you kept the spirit alive. With love, Cousin Sissy and family
Barbara & Brad Liggett
April 22, 2004
When we lived in Kankakee, Illinois years ago, Michael and his family were our neighbors and friends. Michael was an adorable little boy with the map of Ireland on his face. I remember he and our boys building a fort in the lot next to our driveway and he thought it was great to be a part of the gang and helping out every day. The fort was like a palace to all the boys. Another time I recall I saw him walking home from baseball try outs with his face down, as I drove by. I asked him what the trouble was and he said he did not make the team. I said, "Hop in" and we went to the Dairy Queen for a cone. I told him he'd make it next time and that made him smile. He never gave up on anything. We will never forget him.
Barbara and Brad Liggett
Manasquan, New Jersey
Ross & Mary Alice Mason
April 22, 2004
Even though we never met Michael, we feel we know him thru his parents, Pat & Don. Our hearts go out to Pat, Don, family and friends at this time. Rest in peace, Michael.
God Bless,
Mary Alice & Ross
Fred Bucher
April 21, 2004
My love and sorrow to the Janda Family. I feel as though I knew Michael, thru his brother Hugh, and the beautiful entries to this guest book. Pat and Dons words are an inspiration to cherish every moment we have with our own families. I am truly sorry, and wish you all fond memories of Michael.
CELESTE COHEN
April 21, 2004
DEAR PAT:
WE SHARE YOUR SORROW.
THE BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES THAT YOU HAVE FROM YOUR SON SHOWED US HOW SPECIAL MICHAEL WAS. WE ARE SURE HE WAS PROUD TO BE YOUR SON.
MAY GOD GIVE YOU PEACE.
WITH SYMPHATY,
CELESTE AND MIRNA
FINE LATIN ART
Pat and Jack Lynch
April 20, 2004
Dear Pat, Don and family,
We pray for you in your sorrow. May you know that Michael is now at peace and that His arms are wrapped around him in eternal life in the kingdom of heaven.
Our love always,
B.J. Randall
April 19, 2004
I've known Mike since childhood, he was the first kid I met when I moved to Kankakee, IL. at the age of 10. Several hours later he was the first kid I fought with after a baseball game. But we played baseball the rest of the summer. No grudges. A few more fights. A lifetime friendship. Mike was just passionate about things. He lived life on his own terms. If you could respect that, he could respect you. He was truly one of a kind. He was a father, son, brother, and friend. He accomplished a lot for taking the path less travelled. God bless him.
jack muir
April 19, 2004
I offer my condolences. May your family's faith and memories provide the strength and comfort to sustain you in your grief.
Donald F Janda
April 18, 2004
A message to my son Mike who is now with God.
Although you choose a lifestyle that was different from that in which you were raised, I tried to undestand and back you up although many times I did not agree. In the recent past few years I know you tried exceptionally hard to improve your lot and win my approval. I was very proud of you but did not tell you enough. (Your Dad's a slow learner). When I met your friends at the Cloud Nine Tribute and heard their stories of the help & love you and they exchanged throughout your adult life, I have never been more proud of you than now, and I understand how your short life was full in the way you touched others. I Love you son, may you have an eternity of peace.
Your Dad
Carol Kennedy
April 18, 2004
I'm sorry I never met you Mike, but I know your mom very well. She is a grand lady and terrific writer, and now I can't wait to read the 'Extra Placemat' story. Pat, I will keep you and your family in my daily prayers.
God Bless
Carol Kennedy
Jules Morreal
April 16, 2004
May God bless you both,Pat & Don and help you in this time of sorrow and loss. Michael we are certain is now in His embrace. Our condolence is extended to you. Jules and Jeanette.
Taylor Janda
April 16, 2004
Uncle Mike was a great Uncle,son,friend,and father and will be greatly missed by all.Best wishes and love to you Uncle Mike.
Love-Taylor
Grace and Ken Flynn
April 16, 2004
We knew Michael's parents before they were married. We knew them as a dating couple. We knew them when Michael was born. All of us who had children at that time have lost a son. For to all mothers it is the same loss. Our loss.
Blessings on Patsy and Don Janda
Terri Janda
April 16, 2004
I was introduced to "big bro" Mike by my husband, Michael's youngest "little bro" brother Chip as the man who lived life by his own set of rules. One couldn't help but be fascinated by Michael's tales of adventure on the road and enamored with his big, loving heart. He hadn't been "encased" by corporate & societal rules...thus, he never knew a stranger and was always willing to help anyone out. I'll always admire his strong sense of adventure and his will to live life to the fullest, in his own way. The love and devotion he had for his family was born from the loving family from which he came. He routinely spoke of his love for his children, his brothers and his parents. It was through those lengthy phone conversations where Michael told me how special each family member was to him. Alyssa, who also lived life her way he had grown to admire and respect (he loved his baby girl). Travis, his "main man"-who can top that? Chip & Hugh, in Mike's eyes, "had it all and they'd better appreciate it" (he'd say with a sly grin) and his parents, absolutely irreplaceable. He knew that his leaving home at the young age of 17 had been difficult for his family, but he was forever grateful his parents let him go & find his "own way". He knew they loved him dearly and would never give up on him-it's that love that made Michael so strong! I'm grateful I had the opportunity to meet Michael, to be part of his family and to help carry on the beautiful Janda legacy. Ride on!
Pat & Don Janda
April 16, 2004
Fund for Michael's son Travis Michael Janda age 18 is in Travis's name at:
Wells Fargo Bank
5245 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, Washington 98408
253 472 7075 LaTonya Herrod, Service Mgr
Hugh Janda
April 15, 2004
Mike is my big brother....he was always there for me, even when he was far away. He always looked out for us and would defend us to the end. There are alot of memories I have, but the one that will always stand out is the Xmas of 1989. On Xmas eve, Mike and I had a long talk on the phone. I had not seen him in 12 years due to long distance and issues we had between us. During that conversation, Mike told me that they eat Christmas dinner at 3:00 PM sharp and that there is always a place set for me. In fact, there has been a place set for me for years. I told him that I was flattered but maybe next year as I was going to Florida to see the parents. The next day, my luggage went to Florida but I didn't! A mix-up with frequent flyer
points prohibited me from going. The airline apologized, but no other open flights to Florida.Then fate moved it's huge hand: I said "how bout Seattle ?" they said,".....one seat". I got there at 2:28 PM. I walked over to the cabby, flashed $$,and told him to get me there by 3:00pm, sharp. I walked up to the door, rang the bell with Xmas presents in hand....Mike walked out and "said what do you want?" I said "it's me, Hugh, your brother", he turned his head, eye's lit up & he hugged me. We cried our eyes out. I went inside, met his family for the first time. Everyone was jumping, smiling and crying. When I walked in the kitchen to set down my bag....there was an extra place setting at that table.....it was for me, they really had preset the table for me. No one new including myself that I was going to Seattle.
My parents went to the airport to pick me up and all that was there was luggage. When they got home, we called them from Tacoma. They were so happy! Years later, my Mother published a story about the extra place setting. God Bless you Mike, I know you made it into Heaven!!
Patricia & Donald Janda
April 15, 2004
Micheal was our first child, always loving and caring. At 17 he went away to lead an adventureous life and we missed him more than words can say. He called on the phone almost every single weekend throughout the years to share his life & experiences with us. Though we did not see him as much as we would have liked, we knew all his friends by name because he spoke alot about them. When we attended the Memorial Service at Cloud Nine on April 10th, we were overwhelmed with the love his friends shared with us and the many stories they told of our son. We want them all to know what a comfort it was to us and Michael's two brothers to be with them. Our beloved son will be missed by many and remain in our hearts forever.
Mom and Dad
Conrad P. Loehlein
April 10, 2004
I met Mike blasting down the freeway on a Saturday night.I pulled up beside him and it turned into a long frienship. He had just had moved his family up from California. Mike was new to town and the rest is history We had a lot of good times cruising around on our motorcycles. Panhead Mike, Dave Carlson, Joey Mitsulous, and an assortment of other colorful characters. Mike was a father, parent, husband, and most of all our brother, "Roll em boys."
Peace "Postman Paul"
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