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Michael Lemke Obituary
Michael C. LEMKE 10/15/53 - 6/23/07 On June 23rd, in the company of his wife, Barbara, and daughters Rachel and Sarah, Michael passed on peacefully at age 53 following a valiant eight-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Though his passing was sooner than hoped for, Michael's stay at Seattle's Virginia Mason Medical Center afforded his close friends and colleagues the opportunity to say final goodbyes, something Mike would have truly appreciated. Mike was born and raised on the island of Oahu by parents Florence and Herman. With four siblings and many cousins, Michael always held family as one of the most important things in life. In 1975, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree after attending Santa Clara University and the University of Hawaii. Michael soon began his media career in California with the Los Angeles Herald Examiner. It was at the paper that Mike met Barbara, and the two wed in 1983. Mike joined The Seattle Times Company as Classified Advertising Manager in 1986. Over his 21 years at the Times, Mike took on leadership roles as Vice President of Advertising, and later as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, overseeing Circulation, New Media and Corporate Marketing in addition to Advertising. Mike was a nationally respected newspaper professional, building strong relationships with clients who were drawn to his no-nonsense style and with colleagues who were energized by his unwavering optimism and integrity. In January of this year, he was honored for his leadership in the industry with a Distinguished Service award by the Newspaper Association of America. When not out on the golf course, Mike was an avid reader with a great intellectual curiosity, particularly in the subject areas of history and politics. A devoted family man, Mike also enjoyed gathering with friends and presiding over the barbecue grill. Mike's big heart and commitment to the job he loved kept him going into the office right up to the end. With each passing day, he became larger than life, inspiring all those around him. A strong, accomplished, loving man, Michael was a grand human being whose absence will be deeply felt and shared by those who knew him. He is survived by his wife, daughters, mother, sisters Marlene and Adele, and brothers David and Herman Jr. Mike will be interred in Hawaii next to his father. A Memorial Service is planned for Wednesday, June 27th, from 11-2 at the Columbia Tower. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Mike's name to one of the following: The McCloud Healthcare Clinic, P.O. Box 1143, McCloud, CA 96057-1143; or The Pancreaticobiliary Research Fund, c/o Virginia Mason Seattle Main Clinic, Attn: Dr. Vincent Picozzi, 1100 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Lemke
Sponsored by Gary Moore, a friend and colleague.
Don Sharkey
December 19, 2017
My deepest condolences to Barbara and the family. I met Mike when he started his career at the L.A. Herald-Examiner in 1977 when I was working the Classified Copy Desk. His work ethic, professionalism, warmth and sense of humor were the reasons why he was so well liked by his colleagues. I remember his great stories of hunting at the "ranch" with Steve Hearst and many nights having a beer across the street at Corky's after a long day. I last saw Mike at an ANCAM meeting in Denver in the early 90's after a day of golf talking with Mark Stange. The years fly by so fast that it seems like only yesterday. Thank you Mike for your friendship and rest in peace my friend.
Diane Ledford
January 18, 2010
My sincerest condolences to Barbara, Rachel and Sarah. I knew the Lemke family when we lived in Brier. I remember Mike as being totally devoted to his family. Barbara, Rachel and Sarah...hugs and love to you all!
Tony Marsella
July 15, 2007
Gloria and I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to Barbara and the girls.
I met Mike when he was the Classified Manager in Seattle. He was then and continued to be one of the leading forward thinking people in the newspaper industry. Perhaps, more important than that, Mike was a solid person and always fun to be around. Life is merely a series of moments, and I have spent some very fine ones with Mike Lemke.
God rest his soul.
Maggie Krost
July 13, 2007
My deepest sympathy to Barbara, Rachel and Sarah. I met Mike many years ago when we were both colleagues in the classified department at the Herald Examiner. Barbara worked in the phone room then and Mike in automotive ad sales. I had the privilege of watching their relationship blossom. Mike was a devoted family man. He was also a consummate professional and a truly good man. I didn't see him often over the years, but when I did he was warm, welcoming and eager to catch up. I have heard many accolades for him over the years; in fact, that's all I've heard. I'm honored to have been his colleague and grateful for his considerable contributions to our industry.God Bless Mike.
Patti Stanley
July 13, 2007
My sincere condolences to Mike's family. He was, indeed, a kind person and a will be sorely missed at The Seattle Times. Many blessings to you Mike - good journey.
Jack Mason
July 13, 2007
Mike Lemke's passing is the end of a great man's life. A man who touched so many lives and enriched each and every one of them. A man who looked beyond the outward and truly saw the inner makings of a person. His mentorship to me will be missed dearly. His challenge to me to reach my full potential will forever be present in my life and serve as a motivator for me in any task I undertake. In the end, we can all take solace in the fact that we are better beings for having known Mike Lemke. Rest in Peace Mike...you earned it.
John Leonard
July 9, 2007
To Barbara, Rachel and Sarah, my deepest condolences. I have known Mike for over 25 years, I will miss him a lot.
The time I spend with Mike can only be called the best of times. I will savor the memories for the rest of my life.
Patrick MacDonald
July 9, 2007
First, to Barbara and the girls—my deepest heartfelt condolences. Mike was always a family-first kind of guy..just don't know what else to say about this.
I first met Mike Mike when he was working with Lee Bauregard at The Los Angeles Herald Examiner in the early eighties.
We became fast friends sharing stories of industry happenings and then, tactical challenges facing his paper. But we always ended our talks with lighter fare and never met a subject (or a golf course) we did not not like.
His passion for the industry and the people in it galvanized us. While our visits were intermittent as we were seperated by many miles and his large leaps upward in his career, our visits grew in value over time.
I think now we may have had too many letters folded in a single envelope...still, we had the great tresure of the letters, and now I send these letters posted with a prayer for eternal peace. Michael,
you will always be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you, Barbara and the girls and to all the wonderful people you joined in friendship for life!
Heather Cottrell
July 5, 2007
I knew Mike when I was a little girl. My mom, Theresa Mahnken worked for him for many years. My godmother, Kathy Sheridan was his assistant, and I remember one particular year on a "Take Your Daughter to Work Day", I got the privilege of working with Kathy and Mike. I don't remember much (I was about 11 or 12), but what I do remember was what a nice man he was and I remember thinking how great it must be to have a boss that was so funny and nice.
Having lost my own father at the early age of 51, my heart and prayers go out to his daughters. The entire family is in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.
Mort Goldstrom
July 3, 2007
Mike provided his vision and innovative leadership to the newspaper industry for over 30 years. First with the Los Angeles Herald Examiner and later the LA Times and then with the Seattle Times, Mike put his rare stamp on the industry. Mike provided that leadership in advertising, circulation, marketing, strategic development and in new media.
From product development to staff development to strategic development, Mike found new, innovative, progressive approaches that the rest of us would attempt to emulate. Mike pioneered classified efforts in online, niche publications in verticals and much more.
The bottom line is that our industry was very lucky to have Mike Lemke as one of us.
Julie Peterson Mohr
July 2, 2007
I'm so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I worked with him in Classifieds from 1986 (he started the same summer I did), through 1998 when I moved to the newsroom. I remember him inviting me to his office so we could talk about my move to reporting, and how excited he was for me, as he said he'd always wanted to be a writer too.
Mike was a great boss, a wonderful person, and the world is a lesser place without him.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Patrick Kneeland
July 2, 2007
Mike will be truely missed. During my career in the Advertising Department, Mike continually challenged me ... he has made me a better person today because of his constant encouragement.
I also knew Barbara and the girls. Because the girls were about the same age as my boys, Mike and I would have plenty to talk about!
Mike was and is an inspiration to most everyone he met.
He will be missed.
God Bless.
Patrick Kneeland
Teri Mahnken
July 2, 2007
I worked for/with Mike for over 10 years. He was my mentor and a strong leader whose skills he taught me have served me well for nearly 20 years.
Thank you Mike for the challenges you presented to me and the opportunities you afforded me. You gave me not only the foundation for a successful newspaper career but a wonderful life.
Peace be with you and your family.
Barbara Grandon
July 1, 2007
I was at the Seattle Times for many years in the Advertising Dept., and through many challenging times in my own life and in the company's as well. Mike had an instance to show real compassion toward me when I was having a very tough personal time in the early 90s. I haven't since encountered a work situation that was handled as sensitively. Godspeed Mike.
Mike Lemke
June 30, 2007
Carol Richer Gammell
June 30, 2007
What greater legacy can a man leave behind than the number of people who loved him? In the last eight months, how many people throughout this country thought of Mike daily, said a prayer for his recovery, or relished a personal memory of time well-spent with him?
If this is a measure of a man, Mike Lemke more than measured up. The world is a lesser place without him in it.
My thoughts and prayers go to his beloved family, Barbara, Rachael and Sarah.
Pat and Lee Bollinger
June 29, 2007
Our prayers and thoughts go out to the family and friends of Mike. He was a wonderful person...and we have many, many fond memories of times with he and Barbara.
Linda Frangello
June 29, 2007
Mike came to the Seattle Times in 1986. When I heard he was coming from Los Angeles, I couldn't wait to talk to him about the Dodgers! Being such a Dodgers fan, we had something to talk about right away. He told me of taking clients to the games, arriving in the 3rd inning and leaving in the 6th (to avoid the traffic hassles), enjoying being outdoors while conducting business. Over the years, we had many things to discuss and take care of. I always felt Mike was supportive of me and my career and listened to what I had to say, even if it was something he might not have wanted to hear. He supported and encouraged me in my different positions and told me he was proud to have me represent The Seattle Times. Those were words not often heard from other managers, but Mike was a straight shooter. I liked that about him. When I made the move from inside to outside sales, Mike really cheered me on. I was a little nervous, but he said he had confidence in me and my abilities and to just go out there and do it. So I did! When I acquired the Pierre account, I had many conversations with Mike about things for making their life easier. He was always willing to listen and to try and do the right thing. At their big signing party in February of 2003, at the Metropolitan Grill, it was a party such as I've never been to! Corky, Mike and Eileen represented management, and me, Dina Skeels and Holly Splittgerber represented the advertising side. Everyone had a few drinks, so we were all pretty jovial. At the end of the night, we were taking photos, I have one with Mike, and after that, he kissed my cheek and said he had big plans for me. I'll never know what those plans were. Just six months later, I fell ill and was unable to come back to work at all. In the summer of 2004 I started writing him a letter about my experiences at the paper. We talked on the phone a few times and emailed a little. I never did complete the letter. It still sits in my Word file. When I received the email that Mike was ill, I was so sad, I couldn't even think. We exchanged emails several times and I tried to visit, but missed him the few times I was at the paper. Only two weeks ago, I called and got his voice mail and said I had been thinking about him and praying for him. A few days later I heard things turned for the worse and when I returned from Eastern Washington this past weekend, heard that he passed away. I can't explain how sad I feel for the family and friends, colleagues, and all of us who knew him. We didn't talk about personal things very much, but I could tell that he loved his family very much and that they were important to him. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you in this most difficult time. I feel better knowing he is free from pain, but for those of us left behind who cared about him, it is a profoundly sad time. I will remember Mike always as a caring person, hard worker, dedicated to his work and family. May he now rest in peace and watch over us as we make our way through. To his family, you have my deepest sorrow and prayers. Know that he is with you in spirit.
Tom Mohr
June 29, 2007
Mike and I rubbed shoulders for years in the newspaper business with friends Jay Palmquist, Ron Beach and others. Mike was a thought leader in the newspaper business, ahead of the curve on the digital revolution and innovative in responding to the changing marketplace. He was also a warm, fun, friendly guy who had many close friends. He and his beautiful wife Barbara graced many newspaper meetings, and I have fond memories of my times with them.
My deepest condolences to Barbara and the rest of the family.
Tom Mohr
Larry Santillo
June 29, 2007
I was sad to hear about the passing of Mike. He was a true professional, a pleasure to work with and admired by those who worked with him. May he rest in Peace.
Debbie Stremmel
June 29, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathy regarding the loss of this treasured soul, Mike Lemke. I know that he was an adoring father and faithful loving husband. He spoke of you all often and fondly.
As for me, Mike has been a special friend for more than 20 years. He was dedicated to the newspaper industry and never stopped growing his knowledge of this changing business. I always felt priviledged being able to discuss ideas and concepts with him.
He was a true leader in our business and someone I sought out for advice. He led by example and knew how to embrace change, one of the reasons for his many successes.
He was strong and quiet with a quick wit and marvelous sense of humor. Watching him laugh could make anyone feel good, even if you did not hear the joke or story.
I will pray for the comfort you will find in each other and for the day you will all be joined together again.
Fondly, Debbie Stremmel
Kitty Vance
June 29, 2007
I extend my heartfelt sympathies to Barbara, his daughters and the rest of his family. Mike was one of the best and we will all miss him.
Randall Brant
June 29, 2007
Mike was a caring, giving person. He will long be remembered as a man of principle and integrity.
Kirk Kauhane
June 28, 2007
I knew Michael when we where both growing up on Oahu in our teen age days! He worked with me at my dads (Abraham Kauhane) company (Mckesson Wine and Spirits Beverage) and we became good friends unloading containers of products. His parents where wonderful people as my mother (Betty Ann Kauhane) and father where extremely close with his parents, Florence and Herman Lemke. I wish Mike's family well knowing that Michael will be missed as he was a great friend and a truly successful person in Seattle as his upbringing enlighted the personality of the type of person he truly was.
Gary Moore
June 27, 2007
For over 25 Years You Enhanced my Life
Mike would regularly update me on his wife Barbara and daughters Rachel and Sarah. Put simply he loved them. To the family, thank you for unselfishly sharing Mike with the rest of us. Mike had qualities of a dedicated family man.
Mike was undeniably one of the best in the business. He built a reputation for always making himself available to others when they’d seek his sage advice on their own newspaper company’s challenges. Mike’s wisdom, understanding, and solid attention to detail have been shared with hundreds in the industry. Mike had qualities of a true professional.
Mike will always be a hero; a rare individual with the uncanny ability to make his friends consider themselves special and appreciated. He made others feel like he was lucky to have them for a friend, but truthfully, we were the fortunate ones to benefit from his friendship. He always seemed willing to place others first. Mike had qualities of an extraordinary man.
I will miss you buddy.
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word.
Luke 2:29 (King James Version)
Kathy Baldwin
June 27, 2007
He was a great leader in the Advertising Dept. He always knew each one of us by name. I will truly miss his smiling face walking across the parking lot. God be with you and your family.
Colleen Brewer
June 26, 2007
Mike's life impacted so many people and the newspaper industry is stronger because of his incredible commitment. My prayers are with each of you who grieve and trust that Mike's positive attitude will lead you through this incredibly difficult time.
Debra Ewing
June 26, 2007
I was extremely saddened by the news of Mike's passing. I "retired" from the Times 10 years ago after 25 years in the advertising department. I loved Mike. He was a great boss and I knew I could go into his office and talk to him at anytime about anything. I am so sad to hear that he is no longer with us. My heart goes out to his family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Patrice Baugh
June 26, 2007
Thank you for having this guestbook for people to share their memories about Mike Lemke's impact..of a Life well-lived..that touched people in countless ways..
My name is Patrice Baugh and I was an employee in the Classified Advertising dept for 13 years.
REFLECTION:
Great Corporate Leadership has gotten alot of attention in the media lately because unfortunately its become all too rare.. Highlighting the fact for me that being employed at the Seattle Times really really spoiled me.. I always knew that that the Seattle Times Leadership took their sense of stewardship and maintaining professional integrity at all times with the utmost seriousness. The Bar was set for me at The Times by being in the hands of Great Management and you know what stands out for me now, is that being a Great Leader results from being a Great Person. Thank you Mike Lemke for being 1 of those Great People....
Additional Thoughts..
I now recall Mike Lemke's boyish grin when he would make a joke in the Recognition meetings..
I now recall Mike Lemke's quiet humility for being in such a Sr.Executive position.
I now recall his leading the Advertising Recognition ceremonies with such a great sense of pride in the great job that Advertising employees/managers were doing for customers.
Kate Higgins
June 25, 2007
My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Carolyn Kelly
June 25, 2007
I know dealing with Mike's loss is very difficult for all of us. Last week was very hard and the next few days and weeks will be as well. You know we have a variety of ways to help each of us process this in the way we need, and Alayne and her folks will be communicating those with each department. We're also putting together ways for each of us to share our thoughts and stories and memories of Mike, with each other and with Barb, Rachel, Sarah and his family and friends.
There is no "right" way to grieve; no template or outline to follow. Each of us will find our own way. For some of us, it may mean coming together to share stories, tears and laughter about the many good times; for others, it may mean being alone, in reflection or prayer. It may mean going to a place of worship, or going on a run or a bike ride or out golfing; it may mean having a drink to toast our memories or making a donation or planting a new plant in Mike's honor. It may well be some or all of the above, or something entirely different. It doesn't matter how; it just matters that each of us give ourselves and our colleagues the support and love we need in this moment.
Mike and his family knew they had the love and support of our entire company through these last difficult months; Mike often said to me how much he appreciated it and each and every one of us. Mike was strong and optimistic, but also pragmatic and realistic; he hoped for the best but knew the odds and he often spoke about his pride in his family and his work and his happiness about the life he'd led.
You all know Mike was Hawaiian to his core. There was a concept he often talked about; "Ohana" --the Hawaiian word for family, but meaning family in the truest most extended sense; the community of people who make life fulfilling and fun. Mike's life was, and each of us is part of Mike's Ohana.
Take care of yourselves and each other in this tough moment.
Carolyn
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