Mike Franklin, age 59, died September 20, 2014 of depression after a long and courageous battle. Born and raised in Anderson, South Carolina, he was a true Southern gentleman who fell in love with Montana’s Rocky Mountains.
Where he worked last, was what he loved most: his job at Carroll College for the last 11 years as the Director of Counseling Services. He loved the students and his colleagues. In the 15 years before coming to Carroll College he served as a U.S. Naval chaplain and earned a master’s degree at Yale University. He spent three years as a Methodist minister after earning his Masters of Divinity from Duke University and true to his nature, he was still in contact with the parishioners of the small parish he ministered to 29 years ago. Prior to finding his calling as a spiritual minister, he served as a U.S. Army officer for five years after graduating from West Point. He graduated from T.L. Hanna High School in Anderson, SC in 1973 where he played football, the start of a passion for intense sports. He found joy in parachute jumping, rugby, skiing, kayaking and riverboarding in rivers above his skill level and hiking off the beaten path.
Who he loved last and loved best was his wife Georgia Lovelady, whom he married on July 9, 2011 on the campus of Carroll College. A close second was his dog and constant companion, Gracie, who died in May, four months before his own death. Mike was generous in all ways including with his time, his knowledge, and mentoring others. He was unfailingly kind, gregarious, spiritual, and funny (including two stints of stand-up comedy at the local brewery). He reached out to others even when he himself was struggling.
Mike is survived by so many who loved him dearly. If love alone could have kept him from the depths of depression, he would have sailed above his mental illness. Family members who survive him are his two step-sons, Eric and Cole Speer, the children he never had, but loved well. His sister, Gail Elrod of PA, his brother Curtis Franklin (Angie) of S.C., his nephews Brad Elrod (Shirley) of PA and Scott Franklin (Ami) of SC, nieces Kyena Cornelius(Rob) of MD and Tara Jenness (Wayne) of SC, and all their children. Left behind too are his in-laws, Bill & Betty Lovelady of Helena, who thought the world of Mike. Mike was predeceased by his parents, Curtis Lionel Franklin Sr. and Myrtle Lee Beiers Franklin.
Mike was an incredible friend to so many and over the years stayed in touch with friends who span several states and countries and generations. His early departure leaves a hole in the hearts of his friends, some of whom he gave nicknames that they are stuck with.
A community gathering to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, Sept.27, 2014, at Carroll College in the upper level of the Cube (student center) at 2:00 p.m., followed by a reception.
Mike would ask only that you reach out to those you love on a regular basis. However, if you wish to connect to what Mike cared about, memorial donations are suggested to NAMI Montana (National Alliance for Mental Illness), at P.O. Box 1021, Helena, MT 59624 and an educational fund for his step-sons at Valley Bank of Helena, P.O. Box 5269, Helena, MT 59604 Attn: John Anthony. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Mike.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
2:00 p.m.
Saturday September 27, 2014
Carroll College in the upper level of the Cube
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately following the Celebration
Saturday September 27, 2014
Carroll College in the upper level of the Cube
Helena, Monana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
2:00 p.m.
Saturday September 27, 2014
Carroll College in the upper level of the Cube
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately following the Celebration
Saturday September 27, 2014
Carroll College in the upper level of the Cube
Helena, Monana 59601
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David Lutz - USMA, G-4, Class of '76 says
I remember Mike from the Academy. During one of the details when Mike would have been a sophomore – affectionately called Yearlings – and I was a junior – or Cow – his room was right across the hall from mine. He introduced me to the “sea monkey”. He and his roommate kept a fish bowl of water that contained this teeny tiny creature – at least it appeared to be a living thing – swimming around. Mike told me it was his “unauthorized” pet – a sea monkey. Each of us in our own way had our little “rebellion” against the establishment. I laughed hysterically every time he would show me his pet. It was always easy to have a conversation with Mike.
I had heard that Mike became a minister. I envied him for that – as I continue to contemplate to this day getting into ministry. Today my heart has been saddened by the news of Mike’s passing. While I know he will be greatly missed by his family and close friends – God has taken one of His special creations back to be with Him forever in the Kingdom that is to come to Earth soon. I give God praise and thanks that I had the chance to know Mike Franklin, Company G-4, West Point Class of 1977. Amen.
Lynn James says
Mike’s death is such a heart breaker. I didn’t know him personally, but I sent several students to him for counseling over the years while working as adjunct faculty at Carroll. He really was well respected and well loved. He helped so many troubled kids.
I do know his precious Georgia, and I have her tucked away in my heart. Always.
Love,
Lynn
Scott H says
Mike was my Alpha seminar professor at Carroll. Rather than getting an advisor in my field of study I kept Mike as my advisor and looked forward to our meetings. He was an important part of my time at Carroll and made a positive impact on my life. I’m sorry for your loss.
Jessica Kradel says
I was bawling my eyes out when I first met Mike and Gracie! My parents had just left, I was the only one in my dorm room and in a new strange place as a transfer student. I called the counciling center and he said come on down even though he was busy preparing for the new year.
He helped me to feel welcome. He encouraged me to do things I hadn’t done before. He was a great man and Carroll will not be the same without him! Thanks for being a “saint”!
Keith Franklin says
Georgia and family:
I’m Keith Franklin- a classmate of Mike’s at Duke. We were a part of a close-knit group of friends that was an accountability/study/friends/small group that literally was a life line for me at seminary. I knew that Mike was a friend to me at a tough time (divorce) in my life. He was always sharing with me and the other guys his intellect, his humor, his insight.
I admired Mike for all that he had already accomplished. In seminary as a Student Pastor leading a church each week along with all the other resposibilites in such an academic environment was impressive. Mike could handle so much. I did not know that he had other struggles. His life in the last few years was evidently happier because of you, Georgia and your sons.
The Duke Friends group (aka: Dudes from Duke) got together his summer for a short retreat. Mike could not be with us but we talked on the phone. It was good to hear his voice. The friends shared with me some more highlights of his remarkable life.
Mike was unafraid to swim against the current. He was more than able to do all he did with brilliance, humor, and love. I am so glad to know that his work at Carroll College blessed so many students and colleagues.
I will remember you and your family in prayer.
May the Spirit bring to you the comfort of Resurrection hope.
Keith Franklin
Duke ’86
Anonymous says
As a student at Carroll, Mike counseled me through a time in my life I almost didn’t make it through. I was struggling with thoughts of suicide and an eating disorder. I went to the counseling center and Mike saw me as often as I needed for as long as I needed. We met on a weekly basis for months until I felt better. I think about him often as he was a very big help to me when I needed it most. I’m so sorry for this loss and he will not be forgotten.
Love and Prayers.
Dave Engstrom, USMA '77 G-4/D-3 says
“The man is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.” Robert Louis Stevenson
Alan Getts, USMA '77 G-4 Guppies says
Farewell, good and faithful servant.
Julia Viergutz says
What a great loss to our entire community and especially to the Carroll students. RIP.
Charles E. "Chuck" Harris says
Mike and I were roommates senior (“Firstie”) year in Company E-3 at West Point. He was a great roommate — always thoughtful, affable, and thinking of others. I can easily see him doing stand-up comedy in his later years. I have vivid memories of Dave Engstrom and him always rushing to parachute club after class. He was a person whom you could share thoughts with on a confidential basis and he took a sincere and active interest in his friends. My wife (then girlfriend) Debi and I remember fun times with Mike on weekends and immediately after graduation. May our dear friend rest in peace.
Michael Quinn, USMA "77 G-4/C-3 says
I roomed with Mike for a couple of semesters while in G-4 and we were teammates on the Cadet Parachute Team. Mike was a great guy, fun to be around, and he took a sincere interest in people. He will be missed.
Dale Fleck says
A dear friends has passed from our sight but not forgotten. My deepest sympathies and love to Georgia, a dear friend also. Mike has helped so many people during his short time here but knowing that he is at peace and totally in wonderful care and serenity with God and His Angels and Saints.
Jessica Little says
I met Mike as a freshman at Carroll College. I was struggling with severe depression and he helped get the help that I needed. A few months after he also helped me with another life struggle while I wasn’t a student at Carroll. He didn’t have to help me but he did, he didn’t even charge me. Without his kindness and guidance I might not even be here, let alone be the person I am today . I hope he is in a better place, although he will be greatly missed.
tawnia says
i really don’t know quite how to handle this
Gene Nosco, USMA '77 says
Mike was one of those people that live quietly , contributing often to causes they may never have anticipated and setting examples for others to follow yet doing so with humor and civility as the appropriate. I remember Mike well and that memory is caused in part because of a shared set of experience and in part because of Mike’s strength of quiet character, which itself is rarely found in todays world.
Jim O'Connor, G-4 '76 says
Mike is a great man and he is in Heaven with another dear friend Art Victor. Heaven is a better place because they are there. Everyone who knew Mike, knew he was special man who was both courageous and kind. Mike was always a good friend and enjoyed a good laugh.
Peter Jackson, H-4 "former77 says
I remember Mike well from Beast Barracks and admired his decision to become a Navy chaplain after his tour of army service. He was a kind and caring guy. It appears that he spent his career bringing peace and guidance to others. A noble profession
Larry Greenslit says
Georgia — my wife, Amy, and I send our heartfelt sympathy to you and to all who mourn Mike’s passing. We knew him during his Navy years; he and i, along with John Franklin, were known (humorously, I think!) as “the Unholy Trinity” while we were stationed together at Camp Lejeune. Mike was unfailingly kind and generous, always ready to laugh — a superb chaplain and a better person. I pray that even in heaven, he will continue to entertain the saints with his wit and ability to make everyone around him a better person.
Linda Hoenigsberg says
I met Mike Franklin in my last year of study at Carroll College. He reached out to me and even attended my honors thesis reading in the evening. It touched me to see him on the front row, cheering me on when he could have been home having dinner. He then took me on staff at the Carroll College Counseling Center to supervise an internship while I worked towards becoming a counselor. He was a mentor, a friend, a colleague, and one of the warmest, gentlest souls have ever met. I will miss him. Helena doesn’t seem the same without him here. My sympathies to Georgia and family. I have been personally touched by familial suicide more than once. If you ever need to talk, I am here. My prayers are with you all.
Suzie Conroy says
I met Mike and Gracie while working in the coffee shop at Carroll. He became an instant friend. As I was struggling through a horrific divorce and coming out of a very abusive marriage I felt I was a terrible failure and hopeless. With Mike’s help and support I came through that journey a stronger person. He was there when I lost my job and was so scared of how I was going to care for my family an those feelings of being a failure again were there. From Mike I learned that it is where we come out at the end of our struggles that makes us a survivor. He gave me courage when I had none and hope when I was lost. I will miss him everyday!
Frank & Connie Welter says
Kenneth Michael Franklin – what a kind, gentle and loving soul. Mike became a part of our family 40 years ago while sponsoring him as a young Cadet at West Point. He became a part of our extended family some 25 years later when he arrived in Montana.
Mike brought such joy, laughter and love to every visit over these many years. We have wonderful memories of Mike using a hair dryer on his Cadet uniform pants after one of our kids had a diaper malfunction and he had to hurry back to class, clean, neat, starched and definitely dry. He even made up a holiday, August 13 – Summer Turtle Day, for our kids because he felt August needed a holiday. After moving to Montana he visited Connie’s dad’s hospital room every other day for three months while he recuperated from surgery, and he stopped by to have a scotch with Connie’s mom at her home once a week so she wouldn’t get lonely. We’ll always remember Mike’s West Point graduation and commissioning into the Army, his ordination into the ministry, his excitement at finding a home at Carroll College, his new-found passion for the wilds of Montana, and his love for his “lovely lady” Georgia. We shared with him the emotions of the birth of babies and grandbabies and the deaths of parents. He was always there for us with a joke, a funny story, a quiet prayer, and friendship. We know we are among the many he touched as he passed through this world and he made it his mission to make us all feel we were truly special.
Mike fought a disabling disease with the tenacity of a warrior and dignity of a gentleman. We will miss him always and will forever treasure every precious moment he shared with us.
Georgia and family– our thoughts and prayers are with you every moment.
Nick Milodragovich says
Mike was a wonderful individual. Though soft-spoken, his impact was felt across Carroll’s campus thorughout the years. Young men too “tough” (ie afraid) to open up emotionally met someone they could trust with Mike. I can hear his voice and see his smile.
Megan Patrick-Thompson says
Wonderful friend, colleague, and mentor. Mike left an everlasting impression on me. I had the pleasure of working along side Mike in Counseling Services at Carroll. He came into my life when I needed it the most…learning to play more, work less and let go of my “workaholic” tendencies. Mike seemed to come into others lives when they needed him the most and he always left lasting impressions. I wish I could be there this Saturday to celebrate his life with my former colleagues and his family. However, I will spend the day in the present moment–something Mike instilled in me. “Present moment–beautiful moment.” My thoughts are with you Georgia and his family.
karla flanders says
I knew Mike as a neighbor first when we moved to Montana in “04”. A quiet man who was always pleasant and gracious. Then I got to know him through school and at the games. Talked to him at his work and he only was loving and giving and I felt close just from our heartfelt talks which got me through tough times also. Mike will be missed by many down here, but knowing he will be more loved than ever with his God. He is at peace now.
Doug Burr says
I met Mike through my daughter, Hillary, who was a student at Carroll College. He worked with Hillary during her Carroll College years and continued mentoring her after she graduated. He was a wonderful and talented man who was always quick to deflect credit for his fine work to his colleagues, his students, and to his college. He and I shared many things; our age, our love of working with college students, and the illness of depression. We discussed our illness at length and mentored one another during some tough times. I regret that I had not kept in better contact with Mike as my depression lightened. I assumed he was OK… and that was an error. I am sorry Mike. I loved you like a brother and hope you have found peace.
Chelsea Stone says
I met Mike and Gracie during my first week of Freshman year. He and Kelly gave a talk for the Freshman class letting everyone know about the wellness center. I soon ended up in the wellness center and started seeing everyone down in the basement of guad for counseling. It was so welcoming especially when Gracie would come to great me and I would spend 5-10 minutes sitting in the middle of the hallway petting her, Mike would usually come looking for her after about 5. He would always keep a smile when working. I remember one time I was very upset I didn’t want to do anything except cry and I ended up going down to the wellness center and Mike’s door was open so I sat and played with Gracie and he asked me if I needed to talk and so we had a talk. Even when he was busy with other things if his door was open he would see anyone who needed him. He was a very great man. The start of this year I was told that Gracie would not be down in the wellness center. My first thought was how Mike was doing she meant so much to him. I went and saw him as soon as I got a chance and told him I was sorry for his loss. Even though he kept a smile you could tell he was sad. The bond between him and Gracie is what inspired me to be in Anthrozoology. The bond was just so very strong.
Every time since his death when I have been to the wellness center his door has been closed. It helps me kind of because I know if it was open I would go in there and ask him about his day and realize that he’s gone. I want so much to go down to the wellness center and hear him say “Hi Chelsea” just one more time, like he used to every time I saw him.
Thank you Mike for being in my life you helped me more than you will ever know.
and miss Georgia I wish you the very best and I am so very sorry for your loss.
Dave Engstrom, USMA 77 and his friend and room mate says
After reflecting the last couple days, I want to share this with you all.
I met Mike on 2 July 1973, our first day at West Point. It was about 10:00 and we were roommates for the start of the West Point Experience, Beast Barracks. 8 weeks later, we both landed in Company G-4. Four years and a company shuffle later, we graduated.
We both joined the Parachute Team in January 1974. Mike and I were “Cadet Wives” since we lived together in 3-man rooms with two other classmates: first, with Mark Klaiber, and second for our Yearling (Sophomore) year, with Mike Quinn. Since Mike, Mike and I were on the Parachute Team, we were the perfect “Three’s a Company” long before that show. Sitting in a small room during evening study periods, and Mike trying to sing, “Midnight at the Oasis. Send your camel to bed.” With his pet rock Elmo, and the illegal pet sea monkeys from Grit magazine. Or playing spades in Grant Hall instead of studying. I didn’t know we had the same birthday until the first year, when he said, “Hey, my birthday is tomorrow.” I said, “Mine too!”
We lived together for the first two years, and spent every afternoon and weekends of our cadet life falling out of airplanes and loving life away from the grind of parades, inspections, Tactical Officers, and academics. We were not at the top of the class academically, but instead experienced the beauty of skydiving together over drop zones at Lake Frederick, Gardiner and Wallkill NY, Ellington, CT, Fort Bragg, NC, plus numerous air shows, demonstration jumps, and competitions across the US with our teammates, officers and non-commissioned officer mentors.
Mike was still a rebel out of South Carolina. We had “jet sleds” under our bunks, appropriately tagged as “sports equipment.” The jet sled was a flat piece of flexible red plastic with a rope handle, and we would trudge up Delafield Pond Road in the winter after dinner and satisfy our need for speed by sledding down the hill in the dark until we couldn’t make the climb anymore. Then we would trudge back down to the barracks. Our other hang-out in milder weather was sitting on the highest wall at Fort Putnam overlooking The Plain. It was the highest we could get without having a parachute and a Huey helicopter. We solved many problems of the universe on Fort Putnam including fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and the military sciences.
When we were Firsties (Seniors), Mike was commissioned Infantry. I was surprised when he chose that branch since he had other choices and wasn’t going to be forced into Infantry. He told me that night, it was because of our mentors and instructors: Colonel Leigh Fairbank, Major John Matthews, the Officer in Charge (OIC) of the Parachute Team, Major William Beinlich, USMA ’65 and our Math instructor, and Captain David McKnight, the assistant OIC of the Parachute Team. He wanted to go Medical Service, thanks to the mentorship of Captain Frank and Connie Welter, but it wasn’t a choice for us.
After Mike graduated from Duke and was ordained, I went to his church in Moncure, NC. He was still my Beast-Plebe- Yearling roommate and skydiving buddy, and he gave an outstanding sermon. He couldn’t carry a tune or sing, but he gave sermons from the heart.
Mike was my first Best Man. Almost 10 years later, he was my rock when my wife lost her battle with cancer, and he was there for me as the minister for her Memorial Service.
I was with Mike when he resigned his commission in the Army to become a Navy Ensign and Chaplain. The ceremony was in the Annapolis Chapel, ironic for two West Point Graduates but appropriate for his calling. He joked that he was the, “Oldest Ensign in the Navy, with the most time in grade.”
10 years after losing my wife, Mike was my choice as the minister for my second marriage.
When he was retiring and we talked about “Life After Military,” he called me to talk about going to Carroll and being a counselor. I remember asking, “So what is the question? That is what you do. That is what you need to do.”
For those who knew him and loved him as I have, “Happy Trails, my friend. Until we meet again.” Blue Skies. Dave
Cassey Parriman, former CC nursing student/non-traditional says
I met Mike in the counseling center at Carroll. He had such an accepting & caring way about him & I knew he was sincere. He always sent me away feeling better about myself & with a “plan” until our next meeting. After all everyone needs a “plan”. I will always remember his smiling face & words of encouragement. God must have had a bigger & better “plan” for Mike. I am sure that Gracie is part of that plan. So I think we can all try harder to love one another better & reach out to someone in need. Hug the people you love more & tell them you love them because you may not get another chance. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family at this time of loss.
Carol Anderson says
Thank you Mike for being my friend and my co-worker (technically my boss – but really my friend and mentor). I was so blessed to have been chosen by Mike, to be the office manager at the Wellness Center, and to serve under him and for him. This was a time in my life, when the last child was headed to college and I was faced with an “empty nest” and the BIG 50, so I acquired a puppy and a job. Such a godsend both were (love those black dogs too). The job was a godsend because of Mike. I probably was not the most qualified candidate, but Mike believed in me unconditionally and I’m sure he knew that this job was what I needed. He laughed with me and made me laugh. Our common little ritual each day was for me to ask him, how he was and he always had a snappy little reply – “hunky dorey”, “finer than frog spit”… – wish I could remember them all. Mike showed genuine interest in my life and my families lives. Always so concerned about my son-in-law and his 2 tours of duty in Iraq. Mike was proud of all 4 of my children and their accomplishments. That interest made them honored and blessed to have know him. In many ways he was a big brother to me, always there to help in little ways and big. This southern gentleman epitomized the “golden rule” and he cared about everyone unconditionally. Thank you Mike for letting me see that agape love in action and thank you for the shooting star, as I stood out under the night sky this past Saturday looking for a sign that all was well. I will miss you so and that little black Gracie dog of yours. I know she is prancy dancing all around you now, her BEST FRIEND Mike. Georgia, you made Mike’s life better and he loved you so. We will get together soon and enjoy some Mike stories. Prayers and love Georgia, for you and your boys!
Mark Klaiber, USMA 1977, G-4 says
This is very sad news. I have so many fond memories of Mike during our cadet days as fellow “Guppies,” and especially when Mike, Dave Engstrom, and I were roommates during our plebe year. Dave and Mike shared good times together on the sport parachute team – I was jealous of those experiences. Reflecting back, Mike’s joy in the freedom of being under a canopy probably influenced my decision to go to the 82nd Airborne Division for my first assignment, and to join the sport parachute club at Ft. Bragg. Mike was a kind and gentle soul; he will be missed by his many friends.
Doug Liston says
To one of my Saturday morning coffee friends… I will have a empty feeling not having Mike , sitting on the couch with a cup of coffee in his hand in Sundae’s Coffee house . He always greeted me with a handshake every Saturday morning . I will truly miss his kind and gentle manner in life . Our thoughts and prayers are with you , Georgia .
Andy Wade says
Mike was the first guy to take me under his wing when I was a very new Navy chaplain at Camp Lejeune in 1994. I couldn’t have had a better friend and mentor. During one of the darkest times of my life he would come to my office and just sit with me — he probably never knew that he saved my life. I was so fortunate to follow him at a chapel program that he built from the ground up. For 20 years now anything worthwhile that I did in ministry had the imprint of Mike Franklin on it. We had so many happy times together at work and elsewhere. I can still hear his 200 decibel laugh. God’s grace and peace to you Mike. Andy.
Gwynn Mundinger says
As a former employee of Carroll College I sent many students to Mike for his insight and compassionate suggestions. The students were in good hands with Mike. My deepest sympathy to you, Georgia, and family members.
John and Cheri Larson Family says
There are never enough words to say about someone like Mike. He was one in a million and will be so missed by our family. Thanksgiving, Easter, just any time – Mike and Georgia (and Gracie) were a special part of our family gatherings. He was such a good sport when we played family games. I don’t think he won the Cribbage tournament, but he always played along….. and Guesstures…and Pictionary. Mike was always game for ‘interviewing’ any potential new family members (dates of our adult children). He took the assignment seriously and gave us such amazing insight, honesty, humor, and reassurance. He honored our entire family by officiating at the marriage of our daughter/son-in-law. He brought his humble, gentle, Christian presence to this spirit-filled occasion.
We will miss him greatly, and will forever remember our special times together. He married the most wonderful Georgia, and we are so grateful for this blessing. Our prayers are with you always.
Peace Mike, we know you will have your arms open to greet us when we get there.
Sue Kimpton says
I met Mike only once; and talked by phone with him only once. Those two moments made a tremendous impact on me. I reached out to him regarding a family member attending Carroll, and he said “Tell him that Gracie and I will be waiting for him”. Mike and Gracie helped my son navigate the tricky waters of college and young adulthood with such grace. My husband and I were so comforted to know that someone was there for him to talk to. Georgia, I do not know you but I am sure you are a very, very special woman because of my knowledge of who Mike was. Depression is so very, very difficult. Peace to you. You and he were well loved by each other, and what a gift that must be.
Lynn Weltzien says
Georgia,
I just wanted you to know that about 6 of us from other college counseling programs around the state were in attendance at Mike’s service. Most of us could not stay for the reception as it was such a rainy day and we had hours to drive in the rain to get home. The service was perfect. So much about Mike’s life, his character, his personality and yet dealt so beautifully and honestly with the reality of his depression and death. You made a portion of it about education on this topic and I know Mike would have liked that a lot. We all loved Mike and thought of him as a leader among us. It was his idea that we start our organization, Montana College Counseling Association. He was one of my personal go-to persons whenever I had a questions about work. I have missed him so much this past month. You are in our thoughts as you begin a new chapter of life. We know it will be hard but you are apparently as very special person, with a unique strength, to have been chosen by Mike. Our next meeting is in January and we hope to do something to honor him there. Please let us know if there is anyway we can work with you to create meaning from his death. I don’t know any other way to contact you so hope you get this message.
Jie Chen says
Georgia:
I did not have a chance to meet Mike in person. Your father told me about him all the time. I am very sorry to hear the sad news. Please take good care of yourself and stay strong.
Connor McComas, student and friend says
Mike-
It has taken me many months to find the words to say goodbye. I wanted to let you know I am doing good, I wish I could’ve shown you. Hearing of your death was so hard for me, I didn’t know how to accept the loss of the man who had shown me so much. You were there for me at a time when I was in a dangerous place, and in desperate need of a friend. Thank you so much for your patience and tenacity with me, thank you for not giving up. If it was not for you I don’t know where I’d be. You helped me develop the coping skills to get through that difficult time, skills I still use to this day. I still think of you every time I use them now.
The time I spent with you gave me some of my best memories in college. Kind memories that I will be forever grateful for. You were so compassionate and understanding, and such a ham! I don’t think I ever told you how much you meant to me, but thank you for being there to guide me. Thank you for becoming my mentor, even if you didn’t know it. Thank you for showing me what a good man can be. Thank you for showing me how to be vulnerable and courageous. Thank you for showing me how to live life fully and without shame. The lessons you gave me really took hold years later.
Your death has been so hard to accept. I was so sad to hear of the choice you made, but I hope you are at peace in a better place. I have forgiven you, but I still miss you. Part of me always will. Thank you for living your battle out loud, thank you for making your struggles known to others. The way you lived your life with transparency and vulnerability have forever left an impression on me. I will celebrate you life and share your story with others. I will speak of your humaneness and your struggles to inspire others as I have been.
I miss you my friend.
With love,
Connor.
Anna Riley says
Oh my world, what bad news!!! I tried to reach Mike many times and left messages at work, to no avail. I just found out about his passing after 2 years, and I am devastated. I really never knew he suffered so much from depression. My husband Dave (who passed in 2011) and Mike were great friends. I am sure they are both in heaven looking down at us and smiling.
Georgia, I have never met you but I thought you were a beautiful lady and Mike was so happy to have found you. Please, if you read this, get in touch with me. 937-4778814.
My heartfelt condolences. Anna Riley
wayne holmes says
Wayne Holmes, fellow Navy Chaplain and friend to Mike.
Mike, WaynO here, thanks for the nickname. It’s been several days now since I tried to call you, only to find your obituary. I have to say that your passing, next to losing my twin brother 3 years ago, is the hardest loss that I have experienced. When it came to navy chaplains, you were the best one I ever served with. I can’t think of anyone in our chaplain corps who served in all areas with as much depth of love as you did. When we were in Bremerton serving on ships and I went through a personal crisis, it was you who helped the most. Then, when we were serving with the marines at Camp Lejeune, again I learned the value of a good pastor. While on vacation, our house burned. When we arrived to view the ashes, you were standing in the driveway waiting for us, making a very difficult thing much easier. We love you for being there for us.
I loved you as a friend and I’m glad that you are not hearing this now for the first time. Our Army and Navy experiences and sharing the same church endorsement brought us close. We had much to talk about and share. I know what a great loss your going home is to many in this earthly life. We will miss you and continue to love you and will be thankful for you until we see you again. Fair Winds and Following Seas hooah and oorah! I remain semper fi. WayneO. ,
Brenda Johnson says
I was the first female to serve as the high school principal at Camp Lejeune. It was a difficult job, made more so by prejudice against a woman in that role. It was the time of Columbine. I asked if any chaplain would volunteer to spend time at the school. Mike Franklin “adopted” us. What a blessing! He was the only person I remember asking me regularly, “How are you doing?”