Michael Frederick Melsheimer, 67, of Westminster, died Thursday, July 15, 2010, at Carroll Hospice's Dove House. Born Aug. 21, 1942, in Jacksonville, Fla., he was the son of the late Richard L. and Nancy R. Ison Melsheimer. He was an Army veteran having served during the Vietnam era. He was a social service worker, and co-founded and was active with the nonprofit B4U-ACT. Surviving is a friend, Russell Dick, of Westminster; and a nephew. He was predeceased by two brothers. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be sent to B4U-ACT, P.O. Box 1754, Westminster, MD 21158-9998. Arrangements are by Myers-Durboraw Funeral Home in Westminster. Online condolences may be offered at www.myersdurborawfh.com. Sign this guest book online at www.carrollcountytimes.com.
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I knew Mike for nearly a quarter century, although we were out of touch for a time. I was very happy to reestablish contact three or four years ago. His emphysema was already pretty advanced, so I was amazed at how much he had recently accomplished and was still accomplishing in that state!
At first I could not really believe what I was learning about the organization, B4UACT, that he founded, but as it sank in, he invited me to become involved which I did, for which I am very glad. Its founding is nothing short of a miracle, but I should not be that surprised knowing what Mike was capable of. He had previously integrated the YMCA in Jacksonville, FL against the odds when he ran that facility.
He was a unique, courageous man, one to buck the odds, funny, insightful, charming if bull-headed and exasperating at times, but always a good friend, and always very good at stirring stuff up. Heaven's in trouble now!
We shall greatly miss him although his legacy lives on in his work which he has inspired many of us to carry on.
Rick DeMasi
July 24, 2010
I'm not much for words in these situations. But I do give my thoughts and prayers to all of his family and friends. The loss of a loved one is never easy. Just keep in mind that he is in a better place now and can finally rest easy.
Brian
July 20, 2010
Michael was a true and gifted person who placed others before himself. I first met Michael in the late 90's. He shared with me his work with persons suffering from intense and harmful paraphilias, which led to his B4uAct program. Michael consistently impressed me with his commitments and continued involvement helping others. I seldom meet a person of equal empathy and compassion.
His passing reminds me that life is indeed precious and we need to focus some of that into the community. We and others who do suffer must join together, as Michael would have it to identify and remove the awful situations we face.
I will truly miss Michael. ...his courage and dedication are beyond doubt a model for me to follow... Lastly I believe his legacy will sustain the efforts of others towards a kindlier, understanding and caring people. Although gone, Michael, you'll always have a very special place in my heart and mind.
John R. Groves
Chili, New York
John Groves
July 20, 2010
one of the good guys. my heartfelt sympathies to Mike's family and friends.
kea
July 20, 2010
I was privileged to get to know Mike over the past four or five years. He was caring, strong, and forthright. His directness and sense of humor sometimes made me a bit nervous, and we didn't always agree on things, but these qualities also endeared him to many people, including me.
Most of all, he was a fighter. He fought for the rights of the elderly people in his apartment building. He fought against his emphysema for years. He fought for understanding of people despised by society and its institutions, and for the right of those people to be treated with dignity and fairness. He did this by establishing B4U-ACT, a great legacy that will continue his work.
He was honest and proud about who he was, and taught others to be too. Mike will be terribly missed by those whose lives he affected.
Richard Kramer
July 19, 2010
Michael was a gentle friend. He modeled for us 'recovery'. He wanted to get rid of stigma for those who were stigmatized. We will miss him. I wish to thank Russell Dick for taking such great care of him.
Paula
July 19, 2010
I never met him in person. But he was a online mentor friend for me being personally, he was a gentle, patient and kind-hearted guy whose personality had shine be through. I spent many years chatting with him being online, and I will miss him for that. I pray that he would be at his rest in a better place now.
Gordon S
July 18, 2010
I knew Michael online. I never met him in person, but his strength of personality always came through. A very great loss indeed.
Alan T
July 17, 2010
Mike will be missed by many, but not forgotten.
Baldur
July 16, 2010
My name is Tracy Rebecca Melsheimer Schauermann, the daughter of Mike's twin Matt, which makes me Mike's niece. He will be sorely missed. He was a man with many afflictions, but was loved by his family. We love you Uncle Mike. Rest in peace.
Tracy Schauermann
July 16, 2010
Mike dedicated much of his time to helping individuals suffering from mental health concerns and discrimination. He helped people online, at hospitals, and through his charity work. He continued to do this while suffering from severe problems with his own physical health. He will be missed greatly.
Brian R.
July 16, 2010
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