Michael Joseph Riopel

Mike was a very dear and special friend to me. We played music many, many times together and I'm very proud to say that he was a "lefftone." He could play anything and was a very gifted muscian. I cannot begin to express my sadness when I heard of his passing. His beauty as a person and a friend will be in my heart forever. I Love and miss you, my Brother. Peace to you forever.

Mike played guitar with us when I was a member of the Bernard Glansbeek Quintet in Anchorage years ago. He was an accomplished musician and a good friend, always ready with a cheerful comment, and he was genuine and caring. I'm sure he leaves a big hole in the lives of everyone he knew.

I played music with Mike in Anchorage back in the 80's and early 90's. Was saddened to see his name in the obits which I receive in my email each day. A flood of memories came to me of Michael, all good ones. I remember him as a fun loving friend who was always ready and willing to play some tunes. I remember when the Maclain Family band was in town, and they came to dinner at the place where I was living then, and Mike was there too. And I remember many times when Mike would help us out by...