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Michael Atlas Obituary

MICHAEL DAVID ATLAS, 52, our beloved husband father and son, passed away Friday, July 6th, 2007 . He was born in Houston, Texas January 22nd, 1955 and graduated from Memorial High School in 1973, then graduated in 1977 from University of Texas Business School. He loved the city of his birth and spent his life involved in projects aimed at improving Houston whether it was by making it more comfortable to live in or erecting a skyscraper of previously unmatched quality and beauty. From 1977 to 2000 Mike partnered with his brother Brian Smith Atlas at Atlas Air Conditioning Company. Under his leadership, the nationwide company became publicly traded on the NYSE in 1997. Moving on from mechanical contracting, Mike utilized his educational background in real estate appraisal and land development by becoming more involved in real estate, finding properties that intrigued him to purchase and renovate. As his interest increased, he took on more elaborate projects until recently realizing his dream of building a modernist skyscraper in the most sought after location in Houston at 2727 Kirby Drive. Mike was a loving and devoted husband and father, he is survived by his wife Sherri Gorme Atlas, his two daughters Robyn Nicole Atlas and Natalie Brooke Atlas and son Harrison Meyer Atlas. He is also survived by his mother Helene Allen Atlas, grandmother Faye Allen Tucker, mother-in-law Betty Ruth Gorme, brother Brian Smith Atlas and wife Cindy Freeman Atlas all of Houston; sisters Susan Atlas Bryson and husband Steven Bryson of Kailua, Hawaii, and Cyd Sheri Atlas Novak and husband Charles Novak of Atlanta, Georgia; father-in-law Frank Gorme of Poland; brothers-in-law Neil Gorme and wife Laura Gorme and Brian Gorme; sister-in-law Caryn Gorme all of Houston, and numerous nieces and nephews and a great niece. He was preceded in death by his father Sidney Forrest Atlas, grandfather Harry Allen, step grandfather Hank Tucker and his niece Amy Lee Atlas. He was an active member of Temple Emanu El his entire life. Mike served on the board of the Technion Institute and the Anti-Defamation League and was instrumental in the air conditioning of the Holocaust Museum when it was being built. Mike also dedicated time, support and energy to other causes such as Seven Acres and the Crossroads School where he was recently honored, a school for children with learning differences. He loved to travel all over the world from Alaska to the savannahs of Africa, and fishing was one of his lifelong passions. Michael's presence will be missed, both in his close extended family and in the professional community. His sense of humor, charisma and sweet nature are things for which he will surely be remembered as well as his uncanny business savvy and love of architecture. The service to celebrate Michael's life will be conducted at two o'clock in the afternoon on Tuesday, July 10th in the sanctuary of Temple Emanu El, 1500 Sunset Blvd in Houston. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bo's Place, www.bosplace.org or the Building Expansion Fund of 2007 at Temple Emanu El.

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Published by Houston Chronicle from Jul. 8 to Jul. 9, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Atlas

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Josh LeComte

July 29, 2007

I had the pleasure of meeting Mike a few years ago on a fishing trip the summer after graduating college. On his vacation time, he took the time to talk to me about my career and even offered me a job in Houston. He was a class act, very approachable and laid back. I was taken back by his generousity and thoughtfullnes. My condolences go out to his family.

Garson Silvers

July 26, 2007

Mike, you will be missed your vision for Kirby will be admired, your mark was made.

Christa Cantele (formerly Goetze)

July 18, 2007

As neighbors and friends it is with great sadness that I learned of this news. My heartfelt sympathy goes to this beautiful family for their loss.

William Brookstein

July 18, 2007

Just a short note to convey my condolences. It was kind of a shock to read this on the internet. I had just met Mike maybe two months ago
while looking for a real estate sales position. I had wondered into his sales office on W. Alabama to learn more about 2727 Kirby and how I could maybe participate in the selling process. I myself had just lost my father and was feeling alot of pain from the loss when i met Mike. I am sure his vision and diserving efforts will be a huge success when this extraordinary new community is completed.
Again, please accept my condolences.

Blaire Axelrod

July 17, 2007

I have known Robyn since diapers and have shared a special friendship ever since. I can't remember a time that her dad didn't have the ability to make us laugh and smile when sitting in the kitchen goofing off. I can't remember a time that her dad was not a part of every event and/or occassion in her life, always showing a huge admiration for her accomplishments, with video camera in hand! He displayed this quality with Natalie and I know Harrison too! I know as a family you will all pull through this difficult time together! Much love from all the Axelrods...

Caroline Root

July 17, 2007

Mr. Atlas was one of the most carefree, free spirited and outstanding husband and father I have ever known. He is the father of my best friend, and someone I will miss dearly. I will always remember his since of humor and his wonderful charm. He will always be remembered, missed, and loved. Love you Mike!!!!

Valerie Kupelian-Greenwood

July 16, 2007

I am very said for the lose of someone so kind. I had not seen Mike since high school, but thought of him many times. We went through elementry, junior high and senior high together. He was always pleasent and helpful to everyone, even as a child.

Kathleen Flournoy

July 15, 2007

I had the pleasure of growing up next door to the Atlas family. They always made me feel like I was part of their family and their house was a very welcoming place to be. I have many wonderful memories of those early years with the Atlas clan. Although I have not seen Michael in many years, I remember him as a really great kid and based on what I hear, he turned out to be an extraordinary man - much like his Dad, whom I admired greatly. My thoughts and prayers are with the Atlas family. God bless you. Kathie Lindow Flournoy

Tony Schalscha

July 15, 2007

Cherri and family, Yvonne and I send our condolences and wish you and yours a "long life".
Love Tony and Yvonne Schalscha

Tom Reichert

July 15, 2007

I knew Michael since we were little kids. We grew up in the same neighborhood. We went to the same schools from elementary through college. We weren’t close, but I remember him well and fondly. He was always kind, fun, and charming. I feel lucky to have known him, and proud to see how much he touched the lives of others and became such a solid citizen. My sympathies to all his family and friends.

Pauline Turboff

July 13, 2007

My deepest sympathies to the Atlas family.

Fran Vogel

July 12, 2007

I can only say my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this time. May you find comfort in one another.

Judy Noble

July 12, 2007

My heart is filled with sorrow after hearing about the tragic news and death of Mike. He was a great guy and will be missed. My prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. God Bless.

stephanie ware-douglass

July 11, 2007

I know this is a tremendous loss for all of you. What amazing memories we all have that will last beyond our life time. Please accept my condolences for your loss.

Mike Chambers

July 11, 2007

As the Rabbi and Robyn both said at the service, Mike was a very unique and "free-spirited individual" and I am so glad I was able to share many years of friendship and memories with him. He will be deeply missed.
May God bring strength and comfort to all of the Atlas family.

Rockie Young/Eickenhorst

July 11, 2007

My thoughts and prayers go out to each member of the Atlas family. My father, Carl Young, had the privilege of working for the Atlas family until his death in 1992. My mother Betty was deeply saddened when I told her about Michael's death. I am sorry that we did not know until after the services, I only wish we could have expressed out condolences in person.

Toye Elkins

July 11, 2007

May God bless the Atlas family at this time. I worked for Brian, Mike and Mr. Atlas at Atlas A/C on N Post Oak in the early 80's as their Secretary and can truely say that I have never worked for another employer that was so genuine, kind, considerate, and thoughtful regarding their employees. I am happy that I was able to meet Brian and Mike and their families in my lifetime. Just great people! God Bless.

Sharron Muncy Martin

July 11, 2007

My sincere condolences to the Atlas family. My late husband, Chuck Muncy, worked for Atlas Air Conditioning in the 1970s and knew both Mike and Brian, as I did. Such a tragedy to lose someone at such a young and vibrant age. God bless you all.

Emma & Tom Zeck

July 10, 2007

We're thinking of you and your family at this time. our words seem empty....with sympathy in times of sorrow, God's quiet waters of hope and comfort flow. Your lives feel uprooted in this time of grief and sorrow. Our prayers for all of you, ask for comfort as your healing time comes, praying you feel God's strength and comfort. May our prayer help in some small way. Our hearts are full of caring thoughts. We are so sorry for your loss. Mike was a great person, and what a pleasure it has been to have known him. When we feel the sunlight, we will always remember him and how Robyn told us how much they loved "his song".. "Here comes the sun" It was our joy to have known Mike, and for my husband, Tom, to have worked with him for many years, he was always there as a friend and later as a boss. He left his mark on many lives and his bright spirit in the memories he left behind. May you find comfort in remembering someone so special.

Amy & Scott Boyett

July 10, 2007

Our hearts go out to the Atlas family. We are very sorry for your loss.

Carol Allen

July 10, 2007

Sheri and family, I was so saddened to hear of Mike's sudden death. He always had a smile and a kind word. I loved being your neighbor and it was such fun to watch your kids grow up. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Love to each of you,

Ralph, Barbara and Cynthia Shifflett

July 10, 2007

Our thoughts and deepest symphathy for the entire Atlas family. A kind, generous man, Mike will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Reyna Saldana

July 10, 2007

I was deeply saddened to hear the news about the sudden death of Mike Atlas. My thoughts and prayers are with the Atlas family during this difficult time.

Randy Steck

July 10, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with the Atlas Family during the time of this terrible loss. Mike was a great guy.

The Mungia Family

July 10, 2007

Our deepest sympathy to the Atlas Family. My dad, Santos, was honored to work for Mike for many years. Growing up I always heard of the Atlas legacy which Mike was obviously a big part of. I now work for Atlas and am also happy to say that I am lucky to be part of something that Mike helped create. Again, to all of the Atlas family, our thoughts are with you and wish you strength in this time of sorrow.

Mehdi (Alex) Mazratian

July 10, 2007

I was deeply saddened to learn about Micheal. I considered him a true friend. Many years ago, sitting in his kitchen he gave me a piece of paper with one sentence on it. Debt is evil. He told me that this was the best advice he could ever pass along. Even though that paper is long gone, I have always kept that advice close to heart and shared it with many. My heart and thoughts go out to you and your family during this most difficult time. Micheal was a good man and will be missed.

Judy and Darby Seré

July 10, 2007

We are to be tenants of 2727 Kirby. We met Mike several years ago in the sales office and were drawn to his warmth, enthusiasm, and generosity. The excitement he had for the project was constant and we are glad that at least he knew the building was going up before his untimely death. We were fortunate to be invited to his and Sherri's home for a dinner for the new residents and realized what a wonderful family he had behind him.
We were so, so sorry to hear this news. We will never forget him.

Helene Bookbinder

July 10, 2007

Sending my deepest condolences, love and prayers at this difficult time. I did not get to really know Michael yet, and feel deep sorrow I shall never get the chance. I am glad I had the chance to spend Passover with the family. I have wonderful memories of the short times I had the good fortune to be in the presence of Michael.

Melissa (Missy) Brochstein

July 10, 2007

I was so very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Linda Medina

July 10, 2007

My condolences to the entire Atlas family. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Mike Segall

July 10, 2007

I was stunned to here Mike had passed away.I worked at Atlas under Mike for lots of years.We became friends over time and went on several fishing trips.I admired him as a friend and a boss.It is hard to believe he is gone.My prayers go out to the family!

Shirley Caffey

July 10, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Harold Sowell

July 10, 2007

My thoughts prayers and deepest sympathy to the Atlas family. He will surely be missed.

Hal Lundgren

July 10, 2007

Having spoken with Mr. Atlas perhaps twice, I am not a family friend but am indeed an admirer. His son, Harrison, played on my baseball team in 2006, and I cannot imagine a greater tribute to someone than a child's attitude. Harrison is a son anyone would cherish. Positive. Enthusiastic. Dedicated to task. Respectful of others. Genuine. A model attitude for friends and teammates to follow. It would be impossible to overlook Mr. (and Mrs.) Atlas' love and nurture in this wonderful child.

Priscilla Noesi

July 9, 2007

My heart and prayers go out to all of the Atlas family. I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a great person. It was a great pleasure knowing Mike and having him in my life. He will be missed but he will always and forever live in our hearts.

Sheila Phillips

July 9, 2007

To the entire Atlas family, especially Sheri & their children, & brother Brian & his family, my sincerest condolences. I was fortunate to work for & get to know the Atlas’ in the early ‘90’s, & have fond memories of working at Atlas A/C Co. Mike & Brian were young, smart, & fun people to work with, such great employers to so many people, whose families they knew they were helping to sustain, & they seemed to regard it as their pleasure & duty to do so. They treated all of us girls to great Secretary’s Day lunches, & who can forget the lavish holiday parties at Mike & Sheri’s house, that they threw for their employees, with such welcoming & love. I am so very, very sad today & shocked as are the many people who knew, respected & liked Mike. He truly was a unique man. I am hurting so for you, Sheri, & your precious children. You can see how many were touched by knowing Mike & in that, you are also honored. He often spoke of his devotion to Sheri & his kids & you knew how proud he was of his family. If you knew Mr. & Mrs. Sid Atlas, you know that this is a warm, friendly & close family who by their nature, share their prosperity with others in many ways. The loss of this sweet guy will be difficult to accept & believe for a long time to come. I got to talk with Mike a couple of years ago & he was so proud & enthused about his new project on Kirby, & I could tell he was relishing his life in his “second career”. I vote to name the building after him! My sympathies also to his current colleagues who were also friends in the old Atlas A/C days, Cliff Steakley, Doug Hused, & more recent partner Mike Biederstadt; I know you guys love Mike & that he makes work life more interesting! With heartfelt sadness & wishes for healing of all hearts soon,

Ray & Jennifer Salazar

July 9, 2007

Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Atlas Family. We both had the opportunity to work with Mike at Atlas Air Conditioning. He was a Great Leader and will be missed deeply.

Richard Baron

July 9, 2007

I was stunned to find out that Mike has passed away. I worked with him and Brian for several years here at Atlas Air Conditioning. My sympathies and prayers go out to his family.

Tom Brewer

July 9, 2007

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Atlas families.
I will always remember Mike's warm smile and his "get it done attitude."
He will be missed. My prayers are with all of you.

SUSIE & STEVE BOYETT

July 9, 2007

To all of the Atlas's, our deepest sympathy at this untimely and all too soon loss. Michael was young and vibrant, and a very sweet soul. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time and in the months to come.

Jennifer Schlossberg Mark Bacom

July 9, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Atlas family in their time of grief.

Comfort Systems USA - Las Vegas

July 9, 2007

Even though we are new to the Atlas family, we can only wish that as fast as news travels, that prayers and tranquility travel just as swiftly to those who feel sorrow and pain. Wishing moments of peace into the hearts of loved ones at such a time of despair. Our Deepest Sympathy to the family and friends of Mike's loved ones.

Richard and Barbara Strax

July 9, 2007

May the love of friends and family be a source of support and comfort now and always.
Our heartfelt condolences,

Glen Pinkston

July 9, 2007

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Isidore F. Martinez

July 9, 2007

My prayers go out to your Family,
Mike thank's for the opportunity
to work with you & Atlas Air Conditioning

Theron Hall

July 9, 2007

Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mark Beatty

July 9, 2007

Please accept my sincere condolences and know that Mike has touched so many lives. God bless all the members of his family in their time of sorry.

Sean Heaney

July 9, 2007

I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Mike's passing. Mike was a dear friend that I could always rely upon for his sound advice and wisdom. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family

Terri Cicherski

July 9, 2007

Dear Sherri and Family,
My heart goes out to you all, all my prayers and deepest sympathy as well. Mike was a great guy, I was honored to have worked for him and Brian at Atlas in the payroll department. He was the kindest and easiest person to talk with. He will be deeply missed. God Bless You All.

reginald addo-ankrah

July 9, 2007

My prayers are with the Atlas Family. May God strengthen you at
this time of grief.

Ellen Estes

July 9, 2007

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. My thoughts are with all the Atlas Family at this very sad time. Michael was a wonderful person and I was honored to have known him.

Sheryl Shellene

July 9, 2007

My deepest sympathy to Mike's family for their terrible loss. My first thought was how tragic it is that Mike will not be here to see the completion of 2727 Kirby which I know was so near and dear to his heart. I am employed with the architect on that project and we all enjoyed getting to know Mike over the last few years. He was one of a kind! Peace be with you all.

H Jay Rockaway

July 9, 2007

My sincerest condolences to the Atlas family.

Stratton Gillis

July 9, 2007

Tragic news. I went to Jr and Sr high school with Mike. I have not seen him in years but I have fond memories of a great friend. He will be missed. My prayers are with you.

Art Rendon

July 9, 2007

Brian, From the entire Art Rendon family, please accept our deepest condolences for the untimely passing of your brother Mike. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family as you go through this difficult time. My dad and I both worked at Atlas Air Conditioning Co. for many years and still consider you all family.

Bob Schatan

July 9, 2007

My love and condolences to my cousins and their family and friends seems so small an offering for such a great loss. He was a fine man whom I wished I could have spent more time with. Godspeed to all who loved him.

John Zagst

July 9, 2007

Mike's smile, his friendship and his sense of humor will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Mike and his family.

Debby Posso

July 9, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the Atlas family. He was a generous man who will be sorely missed by the people of Houston. What a wonderful human being he was to have left the legacy of philanthropy and the spirit of giving to his children and to this community.

Linda Adels

July 9, 2007

I was so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Debbie King

July 9, 2007

Words can not express my sorrow for Mrs. Atlas, Robyn, Natalie and Harrison. From the strength and love I saw expressed by Mrs. Atlas and Robyn on Friday, I know it is a reflection of what a wonderful man Mr. Atlas was while here on earth.
If I can help in any way, please let me know.
With sincere sympathy,
Debbie King
Continental President's Club Rep.

Ashley Banuelos

July 9, 2007

My condolences go out to the Atlas family in their time of mourning. Mr. Atlas was a great person with an outstanding personality and I am lucky to of worked with him. Mike most certainly left his mark on this world and will be greatly missed.

Faunda O'Rear

July 9, 2007

I will always remember Mike's spontanious smile and his energy that he approached everything he touched. Keep smiling Mike and be ready to greet those that went before you and welcome everyone that goes forth after you.

Nelson Poorman

July 9, 2007

My prayers and sympathy to the entire Atlas family.

Jeff Schaffer

July 9, 2007

I just heard about this and was shocked. Mike and I were roommates in Austin during college as well as growing up together, and my and my family's thoughts go out to Helene, Brian, Sheri and the rest of the family.

Joe, Marcia & Josh Alexander

July 9, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Debi Mishael

July 9, 2007

I had the pleasure of meeting Mike at the Crossroads School event where Mike was honored. I will always remember the moment when Harrison spoke and described his father as a "mench." My heart goes out to the whole family. May you be strengthened by Mike's memory.

Michelle McCarel

July 9, 2007

My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. I am so very sorry for your loss.

Norma Auvenshine

July 9, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you peace.

Ricky Behrend

July 9, 2007

Through our mutual friend, Blake Tartt III, I recently became friends with Mike, and was shocked to learn of his passing away. My deepest sympathy and condolences to his family.

Mindy Wertheimer

July 9, 2007

We are so deeply saddened to hear of your loss...Our thoughts are prayers are with you and your beautiful family.

Ken Valach

July 9, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike's family. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. May God Bless his family.

Mark Springfield

July 9, 2007

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Atlas family in your time of sadness.

jeff berler

July 9, 2007

MAXIMUM SADNESS.

Mike Cook

July 9, 2007

So deeply sorry for your loss. Mike will be missed.

Randy & Chris Davis

July 9, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are for you. May god bless your family in this time of sorrow

J.R. Jones

July 9, 2007

My heart is heavy today. His smile will stay with me for life.

David Zeck

July 9, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Edwin Goyonaga

July 9, 2007

Words cannot express my sorrow. Mike thank you for the opportunity you gave me.

Nancy Gennaro

July 9, 2007

I am deeply saddened to learn of Mike's untimely death. My prayers for peace and strength go out to Sherri, Harrison, and the entire Atlas family.

Bob Townsend

July 9, 2007

My prayers are with you. Mike was one of the nicest men I have know.I am sorry for your loss.

Connie Hennessy

July 9, 2007

My deepest sympathy goes towards the Atlas family. Mike has been away from Atlas Air Conditioning for a number of years but I still have pictures of Mike with the "Atlas Air Conditioning Family" on my desk. He brought a lot of smiles to a lot of faces and will be deeply missed. May God Bless You and Keep You.

Richard Evans

July 9, 2007

Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Janis/ Elias Zinn

July 8, 2007

Out of town and still in shock from the news about our dear friend Mike. We wish all the Atlas famliy our sincere condolences at this difficult time.

David and Cathy Shiflett

July 8, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are sorry for your loss.

Mark Creed

July 8, 2007

With my deapest sympathies. May GOD bless your family

Jim Gilly

July 8, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Gregg Carroll

July 8, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Atlas family. Mike will be missed.

Donald Dowling

July 8, 2007

Our prayers are with Mike's family in this time of sorrow. May God give you peace.

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