I was at Mike's service yesterday. While it was dominated by his riding group buddies, that was really because the riding group was from the greater Nashville area; there were enough of us from the pinball side to ensure his parents and Brother Scott heard some of our stories about Mike and the collective admiration we had for his fantastic pinball restoration expertise. The service was very touching and I have to believe the stories about Mike's expertise, enthusiasm, positive attitude and caring displayed to countless bikers and pinballers has to go a long way to make them feel proud of how positive of an influence Mike was on so many lives he touched and hopefully aids their healing process. Burying a child and a brother can not be easy, but I thought it very fitting that Chris ensured to mention at the service and at gravesite that Mike would absolutely want and demand that people get on with their lives and to live life to the fullest. Regardless of how you grieve, I found those words to ring true. Mike did more living in a decade that some people do in a lifetime. Hug your kids, hug your spouse, hug your parents - none of us know how long we have on this earth; let's all take Mike's persona and motto and live life to the fullest every day. I will always hold my memories of Mike in high regard. May God bless Mike's family and encourage us to make the most of every day.

Yes indeed on both subjects. Good seeing you as well. We will do it !

Chris - you did a great job at the service, I think you highlighted many things that need to be said. While it may awkward at times, we need to stop and ask our friends and family where they stand, i.e., are they right with Christ? I think you hit that at the right level. As I mentioned in my post, I think you encouraged and reminded everyone that Mike would want his family & friends to carry on with their lives and not stay mired in grief - I think this was very important for his family to hear.

You did great Chris; Thank You,
Bob