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MICHAEL SPIVAK Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL SPIVAK
Willow Gallagher
February 23, 2013
2 years and I still miss you terribly, hope you are resting peacefully.
Willow
Willow Gallagher
October 27, 2011
Michael was the best man I ever knew, he was so kind and understanding. I met Michael through the Creating Change conference we both worked so hard on. We laughed and enjoyed teasing each other, we even went on a 'what if' date that remains one of best nights of my life. Even though he never intended it he was instrumental in my healing processes as I recovered from abuse and assault, he knew & was so gentle without treating me like glass when I didn't need it. There was a point when I ended up in the hospital and when I got out there were half a dozen texts & missed calls just from him. That weekend that we lost him I had tried contacting him, I had just started going out with someone & wanted to share that bit of joy. I know he'd be proud that because of his impact on my life I was able to take a chance that led to falling in love at a time when I wasn't sure if I could ever have a relationship again. Even though it's been 8 months his death brings me to tears like nothing else. I miss him terribly.
Fraya & Steven Feferman
June 16, 2011
To Michael's Family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. I will always remember how kind Michael was to everyone.
May his memory be a blessing.
Linda Betzer
March 30, 2011
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Spivak,
I had the pleasure of teaching Michael Trial Tactics at CWRU Law School. He was so very bright, kind to his classmates (and opponents), thoughtful, wryly funny, committed and hard-working. When I learned of his death, I was shocked and saddened. A bright light has left us; the world is lesser today. May you find peace in happy memories of good times together and the knowledge that your son was universally loved and admired.
Prof. Linda M. Betzer
Benjamin Kleiman
March 10, 2011
Mike, I think back to our BBYO days together in Hammer and it always brings a smile to my face. You touched so many lives and I know that I'm grateful for that.
March 8, 2011
Dear Marlyn and Family,
I am very sorry to hear of your very sad news. With deepest sympathy and sincere condolences.
Judi Babbitt and sons Marc and Derek Gould
Jenne Freidson
March 7, 2011
I'm so sorry for your loss. I worked with your son at Kohls and just found out yesterday. It's a shock. He always had a smile on his face and I enjoyed working with him. I'll miss him making jokes in the breakroom.
Rowan Walker
March 7, 2011
To Mr. and Mrs. Spivak and Daniel,
Thank you for the gift that was Michael. When I knew Michael, he was just beginning to build for himself the legacy that he leaves behind now. There wasn't a day that he didn't try to make our world a better place. He truly tried to be the change in himself that he wanted to see in the world.
Rhonnie Bogenschutz
March 5, 2011
My deepest condolences to all of you. Our family has fond memories of Michael from District 96 activities and Stevenson High School. A bright, witty, personable kid - hold these memories forever in your hearts.
Barbara & Allan Olbur
March 4, 2011
Marc, Marlyn & Danny, we extend our deepest feelings of sympathy during this time of grief over Michael's passing. We fondly recall the extensive visits Mike spent in our home working with Adam during their AZA days. We remember his keen sense of humor, fire in his belly and leadership qualities. It is apparent that he found his life's work in Minnesota, enriching the lives of all those he touched. May his memory be for a blessing.
Sherry Alimi
March 4, 2011
Dear Marlyn, Marc and Danny,
I was saddened to hear that Michael passed away. I found out through various emails chains since I am no longer in Illinois but have retired to Prescott AZ. I wish I would have heard earlier so I could have sent Alex in my stead. He lives in Arlington Heights now. Please know that you are in my heart and in my prayers. I pray that God will comfort you and that your sweet and cherished memories of Michael will lighten your grief with time.
Lesley Blumthal Wallace
March 3, 2011
Marlyn, Marc, and Danny: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I send the deepest of condolences from Karin, Dana, and myself. With Love- Lesley Blumthal Wallace
March 3, 2011
I didn't know Mike very long at all, but I have to say what a character he was! So darn funny and intelligent!!! He was quite a worker too. His dedication to activism in what he was passionate about was very admirable. I am so sorry to the family and friends for the shock and sadness. Sincerely, Mary Murphy (Mpls, Mn. - BOP)
Adam Olbur
March 3, 2011
Mike you were a big brother to me in BBYO. Without your leadership Hammer would not have survived. It was always nice catching up with you after high school. You will be truly missed. Your friend - Adam
March 3, 2011
My heart goes out to you and your family at this most difficult time. Enjoy the memories of
good times with Michael, and you'll be OK. I pray for you all.
Sandi Sherman (Kaufman)
Melissa Karger
March 2, 2011
Michael and I met during an AIDS charity ride in Europe 8 and half years ago. But we were reunited last summer on a different AIDS charity ride. I thought it was so cool we were reunited after all this time. I will always remember his warm loving personality and awesome sense of humor. God bless you Michael.
Bob Pinzur
March 2, 2011
Susie and I extend our deepest sympathies on the passing of Michael. He had a very warm heart for the underdog and was truly kind to all he touched. It took great courage for him to take a leadership role in one of the great civil rights battles of our generation. I remember him as a young person who was always polite and had a really nice sense of humor. His humor nevr hurt another person and he tried very hard to speak for those who did not have the courage he had. May his courage and compassion be his everlasting memory.
Ellen Gartenberg
March 2, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. May the many wonderful memories ease your pain.
Iris Shapiro
March 2, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Spivak family. Your son/brother worked hard to change the world. He will be missed. May his memory live on forever and ever.
Robyn Sterling
March 2, 2011
My deepest sympathies to the Spivak family. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember playing BGRA baseball with Michael when we were kids. Even in college, I remember his bright, smiling face greeting me when I came back to my dorm on many occasions. He was such a kind person. My thoughts are with your family during this difficult time.
Rob Dolin
March 2, 2011
Mike was the "Big Brother" to my BBYO chapter his senior year of high school. He was a warm and kind person.
Nadine Robertson-DiMare
March 2, 2011
Mark, Marlyn and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am saddened and so sorry for your loss.
Chris Nack
March 2, 2011
My deepest sympathy to you, Marc and Marlyn, and to your family and friends. I have known your family since our Kildeer days and Michael was a wonderful son and an inspiring young man. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Erica Donna Rydzinski
March 1, 2011
Our deepest thoughts are with you Marlyn, in this espically difficult time.
Jason Barth
March 1, 2011
My thoughts and prayers to the family, I played BGRA with Micheal and also had his mother as my 6th grade teacher at Tarkington, he was a good kid back when i knew him.
Olex Carrigan
March 1, 2011
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. My thoughts are with your family.
Michael McGee
March 1, 2011
My sincerest condolences to the family of Michael Spivak. He was such a sincere man, looking you in the eye when talking with you, and listening, really listening when you talked. I am stunned and saddened by his sudden passing.
Jeff Spence
March 1, 2011
I havent kept in touch as much as I should have, but when I knew Mikey was in BGRA and even back then he was a kind hearted person with nothing but respect for everyone!!! MY thoughts and prayers are with the family! - The Spence Family... Jeff, Steve and Barb.
Kay Johnson
March 1, 2011
Michael was a sweet sweet man...... gentle beyond most. He will be missed.
Kay T Johnson and Amy Ruzick St Paul MN
Caryn Sandler & Eric Strean
March 1, 2011
We're deeply sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Sandra Wright
March 1, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with Michael's family and friends. Just like his life was changed in small ways by kind acts so has Michael made a positive impact on the lives around him. A beautiful example of acting with humanity and dignity.
mindy shulman
March 1, 2011
Dear Mrs.Spivak and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your son. My thoughts are with you.
Lou Hoffman
March 1, 2011
To Michael's family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. He was much loved and appreciated by his friends in the Minneapolis area. He did a lot of great work and was always good for a laugh. I loved working with him and I'm going to miss him deeply. He was a great neighbor and friend.
Sincerely,
Lou Hoffman
Jen Parshley
March 1, 2011
Michael, your spirit and dedication to the Bi community will continue to inspire people. May family and friends friend strength in the passion for social justice that you shared so warmly with others. You helped make Creating Change a HUGE success.
Ellen Levy
March 1, 2011
I was so very sorry to learn of your loss. I hope your loving memories and time will help you and your family to heal. My warm thoughts are with you. May Michael's memory be for a blessing.
Monica Travis
March 1, 2011
Michael put his whole heart into his work for area charities. He put a lot of effort into both being welcoming and encouraging others to join him. I'll miss his smile, his dedication, and his wit.
Ruth Hedberg
March 1, 2011
I loved Michael's quick wit, but most of all his daily smile when he came to visit the CRC at Stevenson. My deepest sympathy to Michael's family and friends.
Jamie G
March 1, 2011
You changed my life.
Harvey Zuckman
March 1, 2011
Michael made a difference in this world and in our community. I am very saddened by his loss.
We enjoyed working together this last year on the Creating Change conference and looked forward to riding in the Red Ribbon Ride this summer.
We will carry his memory along with us every mile of the route.
Zichrona Livracha. May his memory be for a blessing.
March 1, 2011
God bless you, Michael and your family members, your friends, and everyone who has befriended you.
JackieB
Lauren Beach
March 1, 2011
My deepest sympathies and condolences to the entire family. Michael Spivak was a dear friend and an amazing activist. I was elated when Michael agreed to run for and won the election for the Bisexual Organizing Project's Treasurer position this past year. I shared so much with Michael as a friend, a leader, and a person. I always thought I would have the chance to share much more in the future. He will be deeply missed.
Steve Backoff
March 1, 2011
I am so sorry. I will miss seeing Mike at the dog park, and around the neighborhood. His dedication to his causes was truly inspirational.
Stacey Long
March 1, 2011
I am so very sorry for your loss and will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time. Michael dedicated his life to helping others and his beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.
Alex Thornton
March 1, 2011
You were a great friend and I am better for having known you. I hope you have found peace. I will see you on the other side, Mike. All my condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
DOROTHY GOLDMAN
March 1, 2011
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY ON YOUR LOSS. MAY THE BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES OF MICHAEL HELP YOU COPE IN YOUR GRIEF.
Kim Adams
March 1, 2011
My deepest condolences to your family - if we can do anything at all please let us know. Michael was a great friend to so many people and his activism and caring heart will never be forgotten.
Katharine (KJ) Johnson
March 1, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Michael was a passionate man with strong ideals. Progress will be slower in a world without him.
Betsy Gardner
February 28, 2011
Dear Spivak family,
Thank you so much for allowing us the great honor of knowing your son. He was a great friend and activist. He will be missed immensely. Our condolences are with you and yours during this time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Betsy Gardner
Friend in Minneapolis
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