Michael James Gillard

Just today I happened to bump into a former employee of the Victoria Station restaurant in Columbus that I haven't seen since 1991. She informed me of Mike's passing. I am still shocked. My sincerest condolences to his family, who I only knew briefly.

I met Mike when I began my employment at Victoria Station in 1983. I rose through the ranks and became the General Manager in 1987. Mike was an energetic, professional leader who earned the respect of all who worked with him. His...

My thoughst and prayers are with Mike's family, and with all of us, his friends, who are missing him so much.

I put a kite into the air for him on Saturday at 11. The kite climbed up above the Earth, and I lost sight of it in the sun's light -- but though I could not see it, I could feel that it was there and flying fine.

I can't see Mike anymore, but I feel just as surely that he is there, and flying, and fine.

God bless,

JIM

We're so sorry to hear the news of Mike's passing and send our thoughts and prayers to Julie and the rest of his family. Mike was one of the hardest working members of our kiting community and his shoes will be very hard to fill. I hope he and Al found the Blaster glasses and are 'raising them up'.

My deepest sympathies to Mike's family and friends. Mike helped our kite team get started by offering advice, enthusiasm and equipment. He helped us get through some difficult growing pains as a team. Although some of our members have changed, our team is still together after 10 years, and it has provided many hours of enjoyment for us all. Thank you Mike....

Jim Cox (Austin End of the Line)

My deepest sympathy to Mike's family.
I've worked with Mike for 8+ years at Ecolab. Mike was a leader in the Columbus district. When you needed help, Mike was the go to guy. His customers loved him as well. Countless times I heard, "is Gillard still with you guys?" Everyone seemed to know him. I will miss our conversations about deep frying turkey, the Buckeyes, family, politics, fishing, camping, drag racing and music.
Mike, you will always be in my heart.

Dear Julie and Family

I was shocked to hear the news of Mike. My heart goes out to you and your family. I had the privelege to work with Mike for almost 5 years. I will always remember Mike for his passion for life. He was a great man and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

May God Bless You and Your Family

The Clem Ewing Family

When you sit at the keyboard, fingers poised, to write a memorial and nothing seems to express what you really want to say, you know you have lost someone special. And, Mike, you were very special - a great editor, a loyal supporter of kiting and the AKA, a true friend, and always an easy chat whenever we got together which was all too seldom. Don't worry about KITING, Mike, we will do all we can to keep it to your standards. Julie and the family, thanks for sharing Mike with us.

Mike taught me many things about flying kites. He showed how to keep a grin on your face when your eyes are aimed at the skies. He stressed the importance of "giving back" to the community that we love so much. And mostly, he reminded me that it is never too late to have a happy childhood. Thanks, Mike!

Julie, Evan, Annie and Becky, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. It was such a shock to learn of Mike's passing. He was truly one of the good guys. Kayla thought so much of him and had fun stories to share after her stay overs with Becky. Mike will be missed in NIMPA as well. Stay strong! Kayla, Megan and I are here if you need anything.