In February of 2013, Dr. Harry shared the Great Discovery, and principles of Six Sigma with a few members of the Arizona National Guard. Moreover, his gestures of kindness and willingness to share were humbling. I now treasure his efforts to support our Service Members. Dr. Harry had a vision and desire to enrich the fabric of us all, through Six Sigma, through The Great Discovery, through his friendship to all those who carry the spirit of service.

The brilliant of light of authentic patriotism shined in his eyes, reflecting the best of America’s ideals; making this world a better place. In my view, Mikel shined brightly the brilliance of America – goodness in action. A goodness founded in the virtues of cooperation and a sense of community. A community that believes the pursuit of happiness is best experienced as a joint venture of shared service, arduous work, and opportunities for all; and Mikel led the way.

From time to time that gracious light sines so that we see the panorama of America’s dream. From here freedom’s light illuminates our case and reflects the greatness of Americas legacy. Listen closely and you will hear “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” echoing on the wind, as he now breaths life under angles wings. With gratitude’s glow, we now gaze upon one Marine’s amazing impact on us all. Today the light of his visions transcends our hearts as soft shadows cast upon our beliefs, hopes, and dreams in America the Beautiful. Thank you, Mikel, my friend, for shining the light.

Treat em’ Rough
Max Butler

I first met Mikel writing standards for IPC in late '80s (writing standards was where I met Bill Smith as well, EIA QRE).  We were working on IPC-PC-90 attempting to require companies to embrace Quality Improvement.  I had the chance to travel with Mikel around ther US  and Eurpoe and present methodologies and eventually he hired me to help implement/deploy six sigma for ABB (Power T&D, where I met Zinkgraf).  Next thing I know he and Rich were off to AliedSignal...where he brought 'Z' and me along...and we added Gary to the fold).  It was a wild ride with some great stories.  Mikel was very persuasive and seldom lost an argument.  He did much to convince several CEO's to implement six sigma and thus influence a generation.  Although there were many times we disagreed with approach, deployment and even tools, he was extremely passionate.  Funny, I never heard him talk about father or godfather of six sigma, but I do recal him calling himself the John Wayne of Quality.  Rest in Peace, Mikel.

In order to win someone over to your cause, you must first reach their heart, the great and high road to their mind... this is what Doc did for me during one of the last Executive Master Black Belt classes that he taught in 2017.

Mikel's capacity to reflect upon and share with the class, the myriad challenges and successes that he encountered, as he worked with the executives of Motorola, General Electric and Allied Signal, enabled me to see the world through his eyes, and that we must continue to strive, to seek, to find and not to yield, until the goal has been achieved.

Rest in Peace Doc...