It was a sunny Sunday afternoon last June when we got a text from Mike. He was going to be in our little home town of Winter Garden for lunch and could we meet him?  As always, my Mike and I jumped at the chance to see him, if only for an hour or so. That afternoon is now a treasure, tucked away with the rest of our fondest memories.
Mike D had been real busy over the previous month or so. A few weeks earlier he had spent precious time with his father in love, Tom Breedlove, taking him on a tour down memory lane, visiting nostalgic locations in North Carolina. They celebrated food and family, and it was good.  
He'd flown home for a few days before coming back to our area, this time to accompany Preston after his visit with Chris and the rest of the family in Washington. We met Mike, along with Preston and Tom, for lunch at his favorite local pizza place.  I had a few minutes to chat alone with Mike that afternoon as we watched Preston joyfully run through the fountains of water at the splash pad; he mentioned that he had been a bit offperhaps just tired, we agreed. We talked about Jamie, as always, and their plans for the next few months.  
As we all parted, he promised we would see him in February, his smile reflecting the countenance of a man who lived each day with intention, purpose and faith. It is good that his smile has been preserved in photos; in the days, weeks and months to come, we will return to those images of his countenance, its light reminding us of his faith and hope, and we will be encouraged again.
There was nothing remarkable about that day last June beyond our joy in being together; it is simply a fresh example of Mike's life. He served. He loved. He sacrificed. He celebrated the gift of each day and he drew others into his joy. Above all others, he did those things for his family.
To my dear friend, Jamie, Mike was a husband who fully embraced his role as leader and provider. Although many equate provision with material needs, he was so much more than that. His military training no doubt helped him recognize the battle that he waged and won for his most precious mission: his home. He served Jamie tenderly, with a pure and honest love.  And yet, he stood on guard, at the ready, to defend and protect her heart. He surrounded her with bastions of love and affection. True to his attention to detail and concern for Jamie, he was trying to direct his transfer from hospice to the funeral home only twenty four hours before he passed. 
He also celebrated Jamie's independence, her unique calling and gifts.  She was a Navy wife, after all! He was her biggest encourager, spurring her on toward her goals and dreams.
He knew her spirit and her appetite for adventure and he embraced it.  They set course, knowing they would absolutely need one another to reach their destination. They sought adventure; they had fun; they were lovers.  We all knew that about them. We admired it and at times we longed for it. By God's grace, they made it look easy.
They celebrated the strength of their commitment as a three strand chord  Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Their hearts were woven together with their heavenly Father's. The strength of that cord was proved as they stood together against obstacles that threatened, but failed to weaken the fortress of their unity.
To Chris and Tiffany, Mike was Dad; a man fully devoted to his children. From the beginning, Mike was determined to be involved in their activities  he was the dad who showed up for everything. He brought snacks and drinks and he was in the thick of whatever they could dream up. Their house was the place the kids went to hang out, and they were welcome. Mike and Jamie chose their church, their friends and their activities based on what was best for Chris and Tiffany. He was a dad who loved his kids; he was their biggest fan. 
While he granted them the space and freedom grown children need to lead their lives as adults, he remained that involved and devoted Dad. He was Chris' best friend. Tiffany was his princess. He's the kind of dad who popped in unannounced with lunch or coffee, just because. He never stopped showing up. 
Mike was Papi to three grandchildren.  He loved each of them and celebrated with great joy the opportunities to introduce them to his favorite places and things.  Whether fishing with Preston off Papa's dock, or playing pretend with Riley and Peyton, nothing was off the table Whether princess, pirate or astronaut, he was all in. He had great hopes and dreams for these newest members of his precious family. 
Mike was best friend to many; others knew him as son, brother, uncle; sailor, coach, mentor; coworker, tutor, committee member, commander and employee.  In all of these roles, in every aspect of his life, Mike didn't do anything half way.  He was all in, with his gentle spirit and infectious smile.
He's been described as selfless, supportive, faithful, optimistic, easy going and kind. The truth is, words are inadequate to express the way that Mike lived.  But his life, as we reflect on it, is after all, the best, most righteous testimony.  It was rich; he inspired others to greatness and he blessed everyone that he encountered.  The world is and will forever be a better place because Mike Dedmon walked on her soil and sailed on her seas.

Mike, I remember you from our days in Muskogee.  It touches me deeply to know that you had a good life, a beautiful wife & children.

Mike was always a great friend to all that he met...nobody was a stranger to him and he had the most positive spirit even during times that were tough.  We grew up together in high school and church. Our close friends lovingly referred to him as "beat" as nicknamed for his spontinaity with our church choral group.  Mike's kindness and ability to laugh at ourselves as we grew up in Muskogee, Oklahoma was endearing and he had a huge impact on the entire class of 1977 as his photos are what defined our youth.  Everyone was very proud and happy to see his wonderful future and family as he journied forward.  We will all miss him dearly and wish much love to his family.

As a read many messages pertaining to Mike, a friend from high school whom I served with on the yearbook staff, I can come to a conclusion that Mike knew how to live.  He has impacted many people's lives for the better, as a child and especially as an adult! Mike, please know that the time you've spent helping, talking and being who you are, has not gone unnoticed. God bless you Mike and your family. May you rest in peace.

Michael is the brother of my daughter-in-law, Cheryl Miller.  She has always talking so lovingly of her big brother.  I know Cheryl is terribly saddened as is Michael's entire family.  May God grant peace to all.

A crazy ace reporter in high school to an honored veteran. You had a great ride Mike. It was a privilege to have known you.

A family man of faith and high morals. I always looked up to you as a second father figure. Stake the tents camper Mike, we'll follow your trail in due time. God bless.

Mike, I cherish each day that we got to share on this earth as brother and sister and look forward to an eternity with you when God calls the rest of us home.  Just know that I am very glad that I had you as a big brother to lead the way and be the great example of a Godly man, Sailor and father. Thank you for leading the way for the rest of us.
And I am happy that you and Jamie and the kids were able to be there for each other even up till the end. 
We love you dearly and you will be missed.

Dear Jamie, Tiffany, and Chris, 
We are so sorry for your loss. Mike was a wonderful friend, so sweet and kind. He is greatly missed. We treasure memories like family dinners, your visit to Atlanta, and loving hugs in Seattle. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mike you will be missed by the whole family. I will hold on to the memories I have of all of us growing up. Love you cousin. Tiffany, I am praying for you and the family. Hopefully we will meet soon..love you all.

I was told by dad how names is Jerry Adkins that I meet him couple of time I don't remember but from what I here he was good man great army person he did maize job put life on line I miss you I I send my sympathy pray to his family I am sorry for your loss

There are truly no words than can fully describe what a great husband, father, grandfather and friend Mike was.  I have known him for about ten years and have had the pleasure of calling him friend since my wife and I first met Mike and Jamie at an Eastern Football game.  Mike had no hesitation in inviting us to join them at their tailgate party for the next game. And so the friendship begins.  I had the opportunity to hear him tell me on many occasions how much he loved his wife Jamie, son Chris, and daughter Tiffany.  He thought the world of them and was proud of their every accomplishment.  As the family grew with in-laws and grandchildren he became a very proud papa.  He would share every time the grandchildren learned or did something new.  He was a great papa.  As a friend he was always open to new adventures and listening to any news you might bring him or if you just wanted to vent.  Mike was always the more thoughtful and level headed one as we would share.  I always considered myself to be a very lucky person to have had the opportunity to know him for this short period of time.  I know that he cared for all of those he called friend and I will always remember his smile and wise counsel.  I will miss you dearly and will always consider you and your family as my family.

Jamie, Chris, Tiffany, & families,
We rejoice with you because we knew and loved Mike.  We weep with you because his passing leaves a void here on earth.  We have this hope with you knowing he is not lost to us BUT now walks the streets of gold in the Light of our Blessed Lord.  May His Peace be your strength.
Love, hugs, and prayers

I only had the privilege of meeting Mr Dedmon at Chris's wedding. He had a way of making you feel like you had known him for years. To hear the way Chris talked about his dad you knew he was a heck of a man. Glad I got the opportunity to meet him, so sorry for the loss.

On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans (USSVI), I offer our sincere condolences on Michael's passing. You and your loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers. We are forever grateful for Michael's service to our country in the U.S. Submarine Service. To our Brother of the Phin we say, Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. May you rest in peace and may God bless your loved ones who remain. Thank you for your service to our country."
Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. - 2 Thess 3:16.

Michael Eugene Dedmon ETCS(SS), US Navy, Now on Eternal Patrol.
Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate
His record is now posted online in the Eternal Patrol file on the USSVI website.

Bill Dixon, National Chaplain United States Submarine Veterans, USSVI.

Mike was a fellow instructor, shipmate, and friend. To the Dedmon family, we pass our condolences on your loss and wish you well. May the Lord be with you and yours in this time of need.

Mike, you were my best friend and my mentor for 30 years. I love you and I will miss you. You will always be a part of me.
To Camper Jamie, Camper Chris and Camper Tiffany, I will always be there for you.

To the Dedmon Family, 

On behalf of the Charleston Base SUBVETS and Swamp Fox Chapter SUBVETS WWII, I offer you our sincere condolences on Mike's passing. We grieve with you on the loss of your loved one and all SUBVETS and their families have your family in our thoughts and prayers. There is no expiration date on the back of our dolphins and Mike will always be remembered as a Brother of the Phin and a great Patriot.

ETCS(SS) Michael E. Dedmon
US Navy Submarine Veteran Retired
Now on Eternal Patrol
Sailor Rest Your Oar 
Your Shipmates Have The Watch

Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate

Charleston Base Submarine Veterans
Nick Nichols, Base Chaplain

Jamie my heart goes to you and Chris &Tiffany wish I could take the hurt away but the Lord needed him home. I am so glad that he was in our life cause he taught us a lot. His dad was proud of him in lots of ways. You all have always and still in my prayers. Love you so much.

Jamie you and your children were blessed with a wonderful husband and Dad.  Although he was taken much too soon we all know that he is with our Savior and no longer in pain.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids, Jamie.  Mike will be missed tremendously, it was a joy knowing him.

Mike and Jamie,

In one of the darkest times of my life we became friends.  You loved us no matter what- through tears, laughter and love.   I am so blessed to be your friend.  I loved walking into a room where u both were being greeted with smiles even in the end days.   I loved hearing your stories and watching the love you had for others.  I loved the gentleness of both your hearts and the honesty that you were willing to share.  I promise to be that life long friend.  That friend who doesn't disappear and the friend who will not judge.  I can only hope that I have learned from both of your love and get the opportunity to prove I am worthy to have such great friends.  Your presence will be missed my friend.  We love you both.

I didn't know Mike very well but I do know that he loved his Wife, Jamie, and his children and grandkids. The world needs many more men like Mike. Rest in peace, Mike, and watch over your family until you can hold them in your arms again.

Mike, Jamie and I served as Spokane Lilac Festival Directors, laboring together to serve our community with an awesome parade and week honoring our military, and celebrating our youth and what is good in Spokane. I remember today Mike and Jamie together....a couple....obviously loving each other, loyal to each other laughing together. At a time when many young people sadly don't value marriage and family, I ache for them not to know the beauty, the challenges, the overcoming joy and awesome closeness of the relationship Mike and Jamie shared. I grieve for you Jamie that you have lost your sweet friend. Bravo for you dear sister.....you ran one of the toughest races in life....and we are grateful for your courageous example and commitment to another human being, and finally....we are awed by your grace.

Mike, thank you for being my son-in-law and friend.  We loved you and you loved us back.  Rest in peace.

Mike was such a well balanced man who definitely had, and always followed his priorities.  He sacrificed himself for others.  There must be a special place in heaven for people like Mike.  Rest in peace our dear friend.  We'll miss you!
Our sincere condolences and love to you, Jamie and Family. 
Russ and Leanne Brown

We will always remember Mike's positive and supportive attitude, his selfless giving of his time and his love for those he touched and especially his love for his family.                             Jamie, Chris and Tiffany, we love you and will be  praying for you.

Steve and Deborah McFarland, Chattanooga, TN

Everyone has those people in their life that have impacted them in a profound way.  A teacher, a church member, a co-worker...people they never forget and forever appreciate no matter how long they go between meetings.  Michael Dedmon was one of those people in my life.  His gentle spirit and infectious smile are what I'll always remember and were exactly what I needed during some of my most formidable years.  Jamie, Chris, Tiffany, and family, I am so sorry for your loss, but please find comfort in knowing that Mike's impact and spirit in the lives that he touched carries on.  You're all in my thoughts and prayers.

Jamie, please accept our condolences.May you feel the love of your family and friends, at this time more than ever. Know that God is there with you, will comfort and keep you.

I will always remember my uncle mike as a very great and kind man. I will always miss the times when the family came together for holidays and mike would tell jokes to make everyone laugh... But I know he is in a better place with my grandpa floyd and that heaven is lucky to have such a wonderful man as a new angel. I love you and will miss you greatly uncle big mike!

Mike was a caring and compassionate Chief Petty Officer to us junior sailors. He always smiled in a bad situation. He proved that a military leader could also be a great human being. 
My heart aches for my lost shipmate.

There's only been a few guys in my life that have had as big an influence on my life as Mr Dedmon.  Whenever I think about him the first word that comes to mind is selfless. Him waking up at the crack of dawn to take two punk boys over to the beach to surf or coaching basketball while dealing with his first round of health issues he was always there.  One thing I always remember is that I never saw him down or looking for sympathy while fighting that first battle. I will forever be greatful for the time I had to spend with him. I truly believe that a good portion of the man I am today is because of Mr Dedmon. Chris, Tiffany and Mrs Dedmon please know that your dad and husband touched a lot of lives in a positive way.

I made three patrols with Chief Dedmon, I am deeply saddened at his passing.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.  

Fair Winds and Following Seas

I will always remember his smile and sincere kindness. He was a wonderful man with a wonderful family and he will be forever missed.

After years of hearing about Mike from my friend Jamie I finally got to meet him. It wasn't a joyous time, but at the passing of Jamie's mom. I was in awe of how this man loved his wife and her family. Even after this tough time he came to Florida not too long after to care for Jamie's dad when he needed help. What a true man of God he is. The little time I spent with him it was evident that he always saw others as coming before him. He loved as Christ loves. God first, others second, himself last. You leave a legacy my brother that I pray I can leave behind too.

Mike was the most dedicated loving husband and father. His love for our Heavenly Father was inspiring to all that knew him. He was an awesome sailor who led in the most positive way. He was a friend to many and his smile was a welcoming sight to everyone who was blessed to get to know him. He will be missed. He is in God's loving arms now. Prayers for Jamie and family in this difficult time. God's blessings always, Pam

Mike, you will truly be missed! We have had some great fun whether we were at formal functions in uniform or rednecking it up at the races.  If only you were a Seminole...I promise to help take good care of Jamie for you and know your precious children and grandchildren will carry on your legacy of service before self.

Thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time. I'm so thankful Mike was a part of my life even if for a short time. Jamie the love you and Mike shared was an inspiration to me.  Y'all's love of family is amazing.  The memories we made together are some of my best. I'll love you forever.  You, Chris and Tiffany will be in my prayers in the days to come. I'm so sorry my friend. I wish I cod be there with you.

You, my dear, were an amazing man; the love of my life.  You taught me about unconditional love.  I was honored to be your wife.   You loved your family with everything you had.  Your children rose up and called you blessed.  Your friends found it joy to be in your presence.  You gave life everything you had.  You made everyone feel they were important.  I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how Mike Dedmon made them feel.  You are one of a kind.  Even though I couldn't stop death from happening, no matter how hard death tries, it won't separate me from your love and wonderful memories.  Because of you, I can say, life didn't get any better than this.  I love you.

OBITUARY

Michael Eugene Dedmon

13 November, 1959 – 15 October, 2015

Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home

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