Michael Paul Seidel

Mike was born August 4, 1963 at Brookfield Hospital in Brookfield, Missouri. Mike was raised south of Chillicothe, Missouri where he attended school and enjoyed many cats, dogs and his favorite a pet rooster. Mike was always busy, playing games and spending time with cousins and family. He attended Chillicothe High School and worked at the water department part time with his father “Pete”. After high school, he attended Trenton Junior College then graduated from UMKC in 1995 with a degree in Liberal Arts.

Mike was a pioneer in the complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) industry, he was a champion in advocate for individuals with disabilities and significantly impacted the lives of many individuals. Mike was instrumental in leading the charge to preserve access and expand opportunities for technology that can assist individuals with disabilities. Mike started his durable medical equipment (DME) career at Abbey Medical in the late 80’s working on the floor in retail sales, he had a passion for customer service. In the early 90’s Mike took a position with Associated Medical where he entered the CRT industry initially providing equipment and services to individuals with spinal cord injuries. Mike continued to develop and refine his skills and collaborated with local physical and occupational therapists to help individuals with their wheelchair selection, seating and positioning. To further demonstrate his commitment to the industry, Mike passed his assistive technology professional (ATP) certification in 1996 and further engaged advocacy efforts. Mike served on several committees, boards and served as President of the National Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (NRRTS) and President of the Case Management Society of America’s Kansas City Chapter (CMSA). He was also appointed and spent time on the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America’s (RESNA) Professional Standards Board and the state of Missouri’s DME subcommittee; these appointments gave Mike a platform to continue to advocate for individuals with disabilities. Mike also received several industry awards including the NRRTS Simon Margolis Fellow award (2022) and the CMSA-KC Making a Difference Award (2013). Not only was Mike an industry champion, his passion, compassion, attention to detail and commitment to serve was admirable and second to none.

Mike was known to enjoy his friends and family while gardening, antiquing, particularly any fabulous mid-century modern décor, traveling and smoking a good cigar. As a true foodie, Mike enjoyed connecting with people over a great meal and drink. Mike was known for his contagious laugh and developed many, many friends, Mike was always ready with a quick, witty comment, you knew you were loved if there was a fiery remark or response.

Mike is survived by his parents, Charles “ Pete” Seidel and Mary Frances Seidel. He was preceded in death by his brother, Charles David; maternal grandparents, Harold and Vivian Ripley and paternal grandparents, Nigal and Elver Seidel and many aunts and uncles.

Mike was loved by many and will be deeply missed.

Please join us for a celebration of Mike’s life being held Wednesday, September 4th at McGilley State Line Chapel (12301 State Line Road). Visitation will take place from 4-7pm followed by a short service at 7:00pm. Graveside burial will be held at Edgewood Cemetery in Chillicothe, MO on Thursday, September 5th at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to LL Dog Rescue, P.O. Box 8545, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66208 or online at www.lldogrescue.org in honor of Mike’s beloved Lola.