There was also a great deal of laughter. Mike had a wonderful sense of humor, and you couldn't really talk about him without sharing that part of his life as well.
Some of the things that were shared included:
- The famous "milk runs" he made, taking at least one child along. It was always a special time between father and child, and always included a special treat (that had to be eaten before they got home so the other siblings wouldn't be jealous).
- Practical jokes he played as a boy ... usually involving dead snakes and his mother (luckily those farm women were made of pretty tough stuff).
- When his son's asked him about who wore the pants in their family, he said, "I wear the pants in our family ... but your mom tells me which ones to wear."
- On a trip to Mongolia (to visit his daughter-in-law's parents), he was honored at a local ceremony and was given fermented mare's milk to drink. He bravely downed the whole glass - only to discover that in Mongolia this was a sign that more was desired. He was happily presented with a second glass, but he made sure to leave this glass unfinished.
- He delighted his grandchildren by announcing "Let's all have some kickapoo joy juice!" None of the grandkids knew what it meant ... other than the fact that it meant more fun with grandpa, and they would pile on him with squeals of delight.
- The millions of acts of service Mike performed, always putting others first, and doing so quietly.
- The depth of love and respect he had for his wife, and how he taught his sons to respect and appreciate women.
- The tender memories of his last days ...
Mike played a huge role in so many people's lives. His life was truly a testament to the effect a good man, doing the right thing, can have on the world.
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