Mike and I had many conversations about The Tigers; Trivia and Tunes.

He, like my fiance LOVES the Tigers. I'd watch the games at home (by force) and then the next day repeat EVERYTHING Rod said about the Tigers.  I'd like to think I either impressed Mike or made a great attempt! LOL!! 

Mike kept me on my toes with Trivia too, he recognized my "Inner Geek" right away. We chatted about a wide range of things.

If there was a lyric or song and I couldn't remember the artist- I'd sing it to Mike and he'd know the artist; the year it was recorded and the names of the other band members!!! Then we'd start singing! (In our indoor voices of course.)   "Living on a prayer" was the most memorable song.  Mike and I "rocked out" to a wide range of songs.

It is unfortunate for us to have lost such a bright light. Mike would always have a smile on his face which would be contagious. It was hard to pass him in the halls and not place a smile on my face. To have such joy all the time was a sure sign of a man with a good spirit. Mike you will be missed.

May God Bless The Banks Family.

Michael and I worked togather at MSX International -we sat diagonally from each other and we had so much fun working with each other.

When we celebrated birthdays at work, Michael always  made sure to bring me a piece of birthday cake, and I him - we watched out for each other where food was concerned. 

We'd break into song togather, he knew so many great songs, and we'd sing and sing at work annoying people in the aisle I'm sure.  But it brough us so much joy.
Michael loved music from the 80's and 90's and all the current artists. 

Michael loved the Detroit Tigers and the U of M Wolverines.  We'd talk sports and our Tigers! 

When his father passed, I came to the showing to support Michael, and he did the same for me when my father passed that same year, just 3 months later.
 
Michael had a smile in his voice, and our client's and his colleagues loved him. 

He was so friendly, professional and spoke lovingly of his wife and daughter.  They were his joys.  

We kept in touch with each other after leaving MSX.
We last spoke not too long ago - I will miss my friend, but know he is with the heavenly angels and our Lord, singing strong, happily and watching us all.   

I will miss you my friend, I am shocked and saddened by your passing.      
  

What I remember most about Mike is during the Winter Gala.  Towards the end of the dance, I remember asking him and Phenecia about their dancing and how much energy and fun they were having.  Mike told me that I should go with Phenecia to some of the classes she was taking.  That it would be fun.

I also remember when I was at Bingham how Mike would stop at my desk to talk or see me in the kitchen and give me the biggest smile and the warmest good morning!

I will truly miss him!

Mike and I both car pooled to work with our spouses, so often we would be waiting in the parking lot waiting and chatting.  We would talk about all sorts of things, but the conversation always ended up on sports.  MIke loved his sports, and he would always try to tutor me on the sports that I didn't know anything about;-)  Good times. 

My huband (Leon) and I were reminiscing last night about how adorable Michael and Phenecia were while dancing at the Winter Gala this past January.

Brings a smile to my face thinking about it now.


 

My fondest memories of Mike include his lovely wife and my favorite (FOOD) :)

I always looked forward to company potlucks because I couldn't wait to see what Mike and his wife prepared.  My all time favorites include:

Taco Salad and Banana Pudding.  mmm...mmm...Good!!  

Bartech Gatherings wont be the same without you Mike....  We'll Miss You!         

When I last talked to Mike he was telling me about the baseball game and I told him I don't watch it like I use to since my dad had passed away.  He then told me he was going to turn me into a baseball fan again.  Mike loved his sports and will truly be missed.  My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

Let's not forget the hot wings MIke made for the potluck, very tasty