The facts shown below were taken from the eulogy delivered by Mike’s beloved nephew (David) at a memorial service held April 3, 2009.
Mike was born May 27, 1943 in Charleston, WV. He passed away March 25, 2009. While an autopsy was inconclusive, Mike suffered from coronary heart disease and it is suspected as the cause of his passing. He left behind a brother (David) and sister-in-law, three nephews and several great-nieces and nephews. It was obvious they loved Mike very much.
Mike was twice married but was single at the time of his death. He had no children of his own and lived alone with only a cat as his companion.
Mike was an avid reader. He loved poetry and wrote many poems and stories. His artistic talent was inherited from his father and grandfather, both gifted artists as is his brother and nephews. Mike also loved cats and his family indicated he always had one around his home.
Mike struggled with many demons throughout his life but ultimately joined AA and was sober for the last several years. He remained close friends with his second wife who found him collapsed on his kitchen floor.
Mike left behind many stories and poems he had written, most informally scribbled on convenient slips of paper. One of his poems was read at his memorial service. It follows:
As I thrash against the wind and struggle through the roaring tide,
my strength buckles and wares.
I then feel my source near me, laughing at my weak whimpering faith.
I feel the touch, ever so gently upon my brow,
urging me on with a new and strong resolve to win the fray.
Then lie softly, comfortably, contently, at peace, in grace,
as the victor in yet another day.
As we seek mirth and beauty and music light and gay,
there are frail forms fainting at the door.
Though their voices are silent, their pleading looks do say,
Oh! Hard times come to me again no more.
M. Estep (1943-2009)
