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Michael Gist Obituary
The family will receive friends at the family owned Peaceful Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Center, P.A. 2325 York Rd. Timonium 21093 on Saturday, December 17, from 10 AM until 12 PM with a memorial service beginning at 12 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Nature Conservancy.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Gist
Sponsored by Jeff Prescott, Friend.
Doreen Dudley
December 9, 2024
I will always remember you. RIP Michael. Your friend, Doreen
Doreen Dudley
December 9, 2022
Dear Michael. I remember you like it was yesterday. We worked together at McCormick. I´ll never forget you. May you peacefully rest. Your friend. Doreen Dudley.
Doreen Dudley
December 9, 2021
Has it been ten years already. Your face is so fresh in my mind. Miss you.
Doreen your friend at McCormick. RIP.
Doreen Dudley
December 9, 2019
I remember Michael at McCormick. I was sad to hear what happened. RIP Michael.
T M
November 22, 2016
Indeed he is missed. His spirit will live forever in the lives of those who loved and cared for him.
November 20, 2016
We here at McCormick still remember mike he was a outgoing person. Always made us laugh. I Mary worked with mike here at McCormick he loved to taste the spices I would tell him stop mike before you get sick and he would eat even more. We truly miss mike and me personally miss mike . God bless and know mike is still here with us.
j k
July 8, 2013
I still think about all the crazy things we never got caught for, all the sports we played growing up and wish it didn't end. You are missed more than words can describe... Rest easy Mikey
For my Anderson lane angels... ? miss and love them both so much!
Laura Letschin
February 13, 2013
The most amazing smile in the whole world
January 25, 2013
Michael and his commitment kitty with Allie
January 25, 2013
you were so much fun when we played family/friends softball and baseball games- it will never be the same
January 25, 2013
Michael doing charity work for Mountain Christian Chuch at 7am on a saturday morning in April
January 25, 2013
In NYC with Allie's family ... chilling on a sidewalk having ice cream
January 25, 2013
January 25, 2013
that smile .. was worth a million words of happiness
Meyers Vonakis Family
January 25, 2013
Your spirit is so strong in our home ... You will never leave our souls! We miss you more than words know how to express.We just want to see your big bright smile again ...
Meyers Family
December 25, 2012
Always in our hearts!
Ring Bearer in Debbie's Wedding
December 12, 2012
December 12, 2012
Michael and Mom
December 12, 2012
Michael, Mom and Pop-Pop
December 12, 2012
Middle School Graduation
December 12, 2012
December 12, 2012
First Day of School
December 12, 2012
Debbie, Kevin and Michael
December 12, 2012
Debbie and Michael
December 12, 2012
Dad, Mom and Michael
December 12, 2012
December 10, 2012
In Memory of Michael
The simple words of “I love you” on the eve of 12/8/11 certainly didn't soften the blow. Early morning 12/9/2011 forever changed the lives of a family… particularly, the lives of my parents. This was devastatingly tragic, untimely and left us all with questions … why?
I have discovered I am someone who relies intensely on my spiritual beliefs and dig my heels deeply to sustain my faith. As believers in a higher power we are not supposed to question, but how do you not? Bad things happen to good people every day ... But why Michael? Haven't we all been through so much already? It's been an emotional ride this year. A year that has drowned us in tears, left us in shock and often, unable to see the light.
I will forever be blessed with a having Michael Francis Gist come into my life that fall day September 10, 1988. He looked like a little man, but we called him our angel. A true gift from God! My parents had the opportunity to adopt this 4 day old baby without any application process or preparation. Simply a call from an old lawyer friend my Stepmom knew. The call was forever life changing. This baby, who had 2 sets of adoptive parents lined up oddly enough, or by the grace of God, was left without adoptive parents. Michael was literally placed in my parents' lap. Suddenly this baby arrived without but hours' notice, and he quickly provided a sense of peace and comfort… our family now complete. What a gift we received!
Michael was full of life and energy. He lived fearlessly and was always seeking adventure outside the norm. Often making you hold your breath and pray for patience and guidance. Michael was a very unique individual - one that touched everyone in a special way if you knew him. At his memorial service, Pastor Green described him as being “wild at heart.” This suited Michael so well.
He had the most infectious laugh and gorgeous smile. He had a charisma that was gifted to him at a very early age. Describing him as Charming was an understatement. He exuded kindness, compassion and demonstrated so much love. He was loved and adored by anyone that knew him. Most importantly, by his parents who devoted their life to giving him the best life they could. Michael was not without his challenges. Many people in his young life were willing to cast negative shadows because of his challenges. Others were there to cheer and support for some days the challenge was difficult.
I truly believe that my parents were hand picked to raise this young man. The unconditional they gave him despite his challenges were the building blocks to the great man he became. From a very early age the encouragement and opportunities they provided him to channel his energy served him well. They instilled so many wonderful qualities and values in him. Most significantly, they fought to give him what he needed. He left an impression. Pastor Green stated it well, “Michael had such a huge heart he would do anything for anyone at any time. He had a servant's heart.” This developed and was created by his incredible experiences and the love and devotion that my parents provided him. Not to forget the sister, brother, sister in-law, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, and those nieces and nephews that were more his siblings who showered him in adoration. He always knew how loved he was.
Michael left us as quickly as he came into our lives. He left behind a family that has struggled staying united at times. Sometimes in the most devastating of times people realize what they have been taking for granted …simply our roots of origin.
As I reflect on this past year, I realized Michael has brought us so many more blessings. We stopped and celebrated his life. In doing so, we have reconnected as a family, created new relationships, took a new perspective on life. There isn't a day I don't think about my baby brother …my first baby as I liked to always call him. I am sad for what we won't be able to share as adults together and the experiences with him and our family. However, I will forever be grateful and feel so blessed to have had him for 23 years. We called him an angel from the day he came into our lives, and I truly believe he left this world as an angel.
Our blessing is that we have been able to celebrate him. Cherish all the wonderful memories and laughter he gave us. A gift to stop and appreciate the simple joys placed in our life. Michael will always be in our hearts…Thank you for the joy you brought into everyone's life. Thank you for sharing your deep love and affection to our parents …you left a gift…I love you.
With deep love, your Sister,
Deb
7/2008
December 10, 2012
7/2011
December 10, 2012
Michael and Laura
December 10, 2012
Michael and Dad, 2009
December 10, 2012
Michael, Kevin & Debbie, 2/2011
December 10, 2012
Michael and Debbie, 2/2011
December 10, 2012
Vonakis, Meyers,McSpadden & Jones Family
December 9, 2012
You will be missed forever and ever !
here you are stringing the lights at Allie's house on a gigantic wreath. I know you r with us as we prepare for xmas the train set gave us a sign:)
Vonakis - Meyers Family
November 19, 2012
We will never forget this adorable smile of yours !
November 9, 2012
Little Hunts at your house with Allie during this season
November 9, 2012
Deep Creek Valentine's Day 3 years ago
November 9, 2012
This was at the Hilton in November about 5 or 6 years ago
November 9, 2012
T M
November 9, 2012
November 9th 2012 - 11 months... It does not seem real. Still, almost a year later and we find ourselves shaking our heads - eyes full of tears saying... (how?) back in December 2011 and Jan 2012 Feb. 2012 etc ...people would always try to offer that once a year has passed it gets easier. In this household for it has only gotten harder. 1 year, 2 years, 10 years 1000 years its always going to hurt just the same. You were such a big part of our everyday lives. Something is always missing Michael. It will always be missing. I am thankful for the times that you visit me in my dreams and share the conversations that we share in those dreams. I pray you never stop visiting in spirit and in dreams. Words will never express the pain, the sorrow, the ache in our hearts since you went away last December. We miss you Michael. Always and forever until we see you in heaven. Allie will never be a whole person again. As hard as she wants to be she just can't. It kills me....
July 9, 2012
July 9, 2012
July 9, 2012
July 9, 2012
Allie's 20th bday
Tracy M
July 9, 2012
This day each month has been very painful like most other days as well. Last year you were here to take Allie out for her birthday (downtown Baltimore). I know that you are with her on her birthday this year as well and in all of the years to come. Your spirit is so strong and we miss you more each day. We love you Michael.
May 24, 2012
Kevin Isaac
May 5, 2012
Michael, I'm so sorry it took me so long to find out what had happened, I saw your dad today and was informed from him. not a day goes by without me thinking of us as kids, how close we were, the trouble we got into. we made some good memories, now looking back from a soon to be fathers eyes, I just want to go back and enjoy those times once more. I tried to get ahold of you on Facebook right after this had happened, it had been years since we had spoken to one another and I was excited to hear from you, but I never did, I hadn't known about this. now, five months later, I just wish I would have been a month sooner then I was in finding you online. Michael, my friend, I am confident you are doing well and will watch upon us all. here's to the friendship we have always had. love, Kevin.
April 8, 2012
Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in spring-time. ~Martin Luther
Michael, you are with us in every season, every holiday, every single day of our lives. Always in our hearts.. Miss Tracy and Family .. we miss you
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creeek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Deep Creek
Tracy
March 31, 2012
Allie, Mo, Family and Friends going to one of Michael"s favorite spots in his neighborhood
March 23, 2012
Allie walking your dog today 3.23.12
March 23, 2012
Tracy Meyers
March 23, 2012
Finally, we made the trip to the Power Lines in your neighborhood. It was 84 degrees today and Allie rounded up a bunch of us and your dog Mo and we made our way there. I think it was good for Allie. I know she felt you. She's been a mess for the past 2 days but I got to see her smile today while we were there. There was even a boy there on his 4 wheeler like you use to do.. everything that is God related reminded me of you. There were butterflies and beautiful trees, the sky was so clear and blue .. Its hard here without you Michael ... we miss you. I know you were with us today. Thank you.
Tracy Meyers
March 10, 2012
Its too painful to keep at this each month or any day for that matter. You know what's in our hearts and we long to see you some day. We miss you Michael.
brooke brooks
March 8, 2012
I love you and miss u Michael wish we could've spent more time together, but I will remember and cherish the times that we did have. Love always and forever. Your cousin, Brooke
February 12, 2012
Michael if it is within your power now that you are an "Angel" in heaven, please help Allie heal. She misses you so much and the pain gets worse everyday. I lift up all of my prayers to you. Always in our hearts forever and ever. Miss Tracy
Alliebug
January 22, 2012
I can't explain to you the way I feel or how much harder it has become for me, you will forever be in my heart and you are with me everywhere I go, one of the great things about you was your love for nature you truely took in all that God has been wanting us to appreciate in life like the trees, animals, changes in the weather, you loved every season and never complained about the cold or heat you just wanted to be outside and enjoy it all, you loved the sounds of animals you would hear while you would hunt and you never needed people around you to have an amazing day, you actually liked the quiet and being in the woods it was like a therapy for you to just see and hear everything nature had to offer to us and many people don't ever take it in like you did, I remember so many times when we would be out on nature walks and you would want me to stop and look or stop and listen and you could tell in your face that it just warmed your heart when I would see or hear what u wanted me too and take it in.. Gosh that smile..the worst place to take you was the humane society ( ha) we would go to visit the dogs every once in awhile and it just killed you to leave u wanted to take all of them home and I remember sometimes when we went back you'd ask me where I think this dog went and if it went to a good home, you taught me so much about life and all the ways we can find love not in material things but in what God gave us, I fell inlove with you more everyday you were and always will be my other half, you were taken from us so soon but in a way you had a full life because of this ( the things you appreciated in life) i truely didn't start living until I met you and I'm forever grateful and forever yours, the 5 years we have spent together don't end here and I can't wait to go through all the natures of heaven with you, we're soulmates and that's how I know we will be together again, I love you my beautiful angel and I'll see you soon
Tracy Meyers
January 18, 2012
Your spirit is so strong and we know that you are here with us every single day. Its still so hard to believe when we see your face on this Obituary. Can't wait to see you again someday. We love you ... you left us with so many thoughtful gifts. I found a card that you wrote to me 2 yrs ago. It read: Happy Birthday and thank you for everything you have done for me and Allie and thank you for helping us with our relationship. I really appreciate it. And also for helping me with other things too. Even before me and Allie were together as a couple I came to you and you helped me and made me become closer to God. And thank you for putting up with my hard headed self and for everything you have spent on me. Love, Michael. You also wrote me a letter one year and placed it in my Bible because you knew I would see it that very evening. You were such a sweet guy. I sure do miss that Big smile of yours. Allie's room is now a shrine of your smiling face so that brings me comfort. See you soon sweetie. I love you. Miss Tracy
Jessica Gist
January 9, 2012
Michael, It's been a month since you were taken from us and i remember that day like it was yesterday. I have avoided writing on here because i haven't wanted to face the fact that my favorite uncle was gone. It has been so hard trying to accept that your not here. You are ,however, in my heart forever and always. We grew up together and shared so many memories that i will forever hold dearly in my heart. When i close my eyes I can still see your warm smile and hear your laugh. Those are things that i will never forget. I miss you Michael, so incredibly much. I just hope you know how much I love you and how much you were loved by everyone. You touched so many lives in the time that you were here. You were and are such a wonderful person and GOD has gained a fantastic angel. I know that we will meet again one day. Until that day comes I know you will be watching over all of us. I love you so much. And I miss you Michael. May you rest in peace my sweet Uncle. XOXOXOXOXOXO
Tracy Meyers
January 9, 2012
Only a month has passed since you left for heaven ... The pain in our hearts in no better today than it was on Dec. 9, 2012. In time as we allow, God will ease the sorrow. We will all see you again some day... We miss you Michael Gist!
Tracy Meyers - Allie's Mom
December 30, 2011
We miss Michael. We often wake up in this house sharing our dreams from the night before. You seem to be showing up in all of our thoughts and dreams quite often. Its still hard to believe that you are gone. I'm not sure anyone who loved you fully accepts this yet. We love you so much!
Beaver Damn with Allie and family
December 29, 2011
In Lancaster Pa. with Allie for a soccer game
December 29, 2011
Mexico With Allie and Family
December 29, 2011
Harford Co Farm fair with Allie
December 29, 2011
Water Balloon battle with Michael's best friend
December 29, 2011
Michael asking Allie to marry him in OC MD
December 29, 2011
NYC Subway ride
December 29, 2011
Best Friends Allie and Mike Hunting
December 29, 2011
OC MD at the rides
December 29, 2011
At a friends wedding in Fallston
December 29, 2011
Allie"s surprise sweet 16 Birthday party
December 29, 2011
The Barn - parkville md Meyers Crab Feast
December 29, 2011
Horse and Buggy Ride Central Park
December 29, 2011
Rock State Park
December 29, 2011
Battery Park
December 29, 2011
NYC Ground Zero
December 29, 2011
Baltimore Inner Harbor
December 29, 2011
Hilton OC Winter trip
December 29, 2011
Deep Creek Ski Trip
December 29, 2011
Holy Communion for Thad
December 29, 2011
NYC Zoo
December 29, 2011
Brenda Chunik
December 28, 2011
Fran and Karen, I was so sorry to hear of the loss of Michael. I know this has to be the hardest time of your life and can't possibly imagine the loss of a child. Fran, I know how proud you were of him and how much you love him. Believe me, he had to know just how lucky he was to have parents like the two of you. I remember when he was a youngster just entering school, how hard the two of you fought to make sure he got the best possible education he could have received. Please know if you need anything at all, or even just to talk, please give me a call 540-222-4316.
Becky Webb
December 27, 2011
Mike Im so sorry i never got to say goodbye. you were and amazing man, with a heart of gold. i will never forget you or the memories we shared. you will never be forgotten, love you mike!
Melody Meyers
December 22, 2011
Sitting here thinking about you and remembering all the good times we shared. The best memories are of you, allie, uncle walt and myself just sitting and listening to the dreams you and allie had. As I sit here thinking in the past tense I am finding it hard to wrap my head around that you are really gone. It just doesn't feel real. I keep thinking you are going to show up somewhere and say "ah = got you guys" I love you so much and miss you :) xoxo
katie
December 22, 2011
wow, i cant believe he is gone! i met mike about 4 years ago. he was wonderful, full of life and we hit it off so well. we talked all the time at work, and he was amazing with everything. he is missed!
December 20, 2011
Letter From Heaven
To my dearest family and love, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you all every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family and love Allie, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
~Author~
Ruth Ann Mahaffey
©Copyright 1998
AllieBug
December 19, 2011
I haven't been able to bring myself to write on here ... I dream about you every night but last night was different, I had a dream that we were somewhere in a forest that didn't seem real it was so beautiful and different and you were showing me around the woods .. from streams to a bear on a big rock and you told me you've been seeing a lot of them lately .. I can't describe what this place looked like or somewhere I can compare it to but I know that is where you are.. somewhere in the mountains with a lot of animals .. I woke up confused and didn't move for awhile because I wanted to come over and tell you about it but I had to look around and realize that your gone.. today hasn't been so good for me but at the same time I had some comfort in knowing where you are .. I've just had to try to accept that I can't be there with you for awhile but I know that when I meet you again in heaven that is where we will be .. the only hope I have here is that if I live life right and through God he will take me to your when I enter heaven.. I love you Michael and I miss you more then anything.. I know your here with me, just come to me in my dreams forever the way you did last night is all I pray for.. I can't wait to see you again .. I love you and always will
December 19, 2011
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
walt and melody meyers
December 18, 2011
Michael, I was sitting on my front porch earlier this evening and remembering how many conversations we had out there about life. For such a young man you had so many goals and ideas that would sometimes just amaze me. I loved watching how you loved Allie so much, there wasn't anything you wouldn't do for her and Uncle Walt and I respected you so much for that. I thank you also for being such a good teacher to joseph about hunting and you would spend time with him watching the hunting and gun shows..he misses you! Maria appreciates the times you would do girly things with her like letting her paint your nails..lol you were the most unselfish person. I think of you when I remember the saying in the bible that we need to have the heart of a child. As a man you had that heart..I could go on and on so I will say so long for now cause this is not goodbye..save me a place at the table. Love you always..oh please be with George as well as he goes through this life without his buddy :)
Cathy Gist
December 18, 2011
My Dearest Michael, When I met you, you were only 9 months old and I joined your family when you were only 15 months old. I tragically lost my brother in 1988 and here you were born in 1988. I feel like God gave that path for all of us. You were more like a Brother to me then a brother-in-law. You have meant so much to me over the years. I have so many incredible memories of you, I am so blessed to have entered your life and been a part of your family. You touched me in so many ways. It was wonderful having you spend weekends and summers with us occassionally and being an influence in your upbringing. Your spirit was so like my own brothers...The amazing qualities of an infectious smile, your oneryness, miscieious ways and your heart of solid gold. You touched my life more than you'll ever know. Thank you God for allowing Michael to be a part of my life, especially during my times of healing the wounds of the loss of my Brother. I am very happy to call you my "Brother" Michael. I will miss you terribly and will remember ALL the good times we shared...riding 4-wheelers, swimming, vacationing, packing your lunches and taking you to work for a summer that you stayed with us, watching movies, doing crafty things, and just sitting for hours, talking, laughing, sharing stories and just joking around. Hearing the "You know I love ya" will live in my heart forever. Oh yea and I will never forget the endless bowls of cereal that were my grocery budget each week LOL I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND WILL MISS YOU TERRIBLY. Thank you Michael for the "tattoo" on my heart! P.S Don't worry about your Brother, Sister and Mom and Dad, I will take care of them and keep them close and help them keep the memories of you alive! Rest in peace my dearest Brother-in-Law, Love Cathy :) :) :)
collins dersch
December 18, 2011
I had so many good times with mike. One time his dad asked him to mow the lawn while we were hanging out drinking some beer so he hooked up a little trailer and me and trav rode along while he mowed. It was always fun, and he always wanted everyone to enjoy themselves. I wish I could have said thanks, and many other things but unfortunatly I cant. I loved ya mike and everyone misses you. I want the best for your family and allies. Rest in peace bro.
William DIffenderffer
December 17, 2011
michael you were and will always remain my best friend. I will always love you my brother and you will always have a special place in my heart. Ride together die together brother
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