Ollie Smith and Mike were the same age and practically grew up together. Mike 'idolized' Ollie and was devastated over the sudden, unexpected death of his beloved cousin. Those who were around Mike during this time feel certain that Ollie's death adversely affected Mike's health. Mike passed 2 months, to the day after Ollie's death. They both will be missed by many people.
If I'm not mistaken Mike told me this is the first time he flew on a plane when he could drink a beer. All the other times he was in the Navy & couldn't. Got a dude from across the aisle to take our pic LOL He was fired up !!
Mike bought this car in Tampa, FLA he got us one way air line tickets to Tampa & we flew down. One of Mike's friends that lived there (he had friends all over) picked us up at the airport & took us to get his car. We got us a Hotel room. went out to eat, and went to a bar that night. Mike & I got up the next morning & I drove us home. I told Mike "Man that car drives like a dream. Felt like i was in a recliner the whole time" Ole Mike just grinned & shook his head.
