Being part of Michael's life was an incredible opportunity. His infectious smile and dry humor were always the highlights of my day. Seeing him in the hospital, during times of great illness, was humbling, to see the strength and courage he had facing such uncertainty. And, meeting him in the office, again full of energy, showed the power of his drive and the love of his family. While the disease took him too soon his memory burns strong in my mind. Thank you, Michael, for all that you have taught me. Caring for you has allowed me to care for others with greater skill. 
Yours,
Jeremy Hirst, M.D.

Michael and I met a little over 2 years ago.  He had a difficult problem and was a very brave teammate in undertaking the interventions required to address this problem (big surgery).  He recovered like a champ.  I was always so impressed with him and enjoyed our visits in the clinic.  He has a fabulous family and incredibly supportive set of parents to walk with him through the challenging time.  They are all to be commended.    Thanks to God for the time we had with Michael.  He is missed!

I walked by a yellow Mustang a few days ago and immediately thought of Michael, recalling many memories but in particular my favorite pictures of him with his beloved car.  Yellow Mustangs will forever bring him fresh to my mind.

My most treasured memory is from a visit with Michele.  We were talking in the loft when Michael appeared and joined in the conversation, nonchalantly devouring a pizza slice with utter relish and looking perfectly himself again after a long, very serious and very terrifying gastrointestinal illness that had absolutely stripped him of weight and energy.  My jaw practically dropped to the floor from sheer amazement.  Seeing Michael being Michael again was one of the happiest moments I've ever experienced.  It still brings a lump to my throat to think of that moment.  

It is not often we are privileged to know someone with such strength, determination and resilience.  I feel very blessed to have met Michael, who fought for life so fiercely and willingly endured so, so much in the process.  I am profoundly grateful for the trailblazer physicians who took on the intricate and monumentally difficult surgery that restored Michael to his normal life for a time, against all odds.  Their surgical skill was astounding, but it is their dedication, compassion and sincere care for Michael that I honor most in my heart.   

Michele and Jerry, you gave Michael so much strength with your unfailing love and support.  Words fail me, other than to say that you nurtured an extraordinary young man who touched many lives with his own.

I had the pleasure of meeting Michael and his parents a little over two years ago. It was truly an honor to care for such a courageous young man as Michael. Through thick and thin he fought and we fought.

As a surgeon and scientist, I am always thinking about how I can cure someone's disease, whether in the operating room or in the laboratory. My many memories of Michael continue to fuel our research in order to find better ways to treat sarcomas like Michael's. Thanks to the support of Michael's family and friends, we will continue on with our work with the hopes of making battles like Michael's a part of history.

With sincerest condolences and fond memories,
Jason Sicklick, MD

Michael, you are missed every day.  It seems so quiet here without you upstairs talking on your headphones & playing games.  You left your energy in your Mustang.  I can feel you smiling/smirking every time I get in and drive it, your warmth is with me.  I love it.  Have fun with Opa and sleep with Surprisey cat.  I'm sure she missed you.  Love, Mom

I met Michael when he started requesting Healing Touch / Reiki.  Michael's growth spiritually was profound.  In the beginning, he thought Reiki was "hocus pocus".  By the end of his journey, he had at least 2-3 practioners going to the house on a weekly basis!  Michael and I didn't have many verbal conversations but we had this amazing spiritual connection.  I remember Michele calling me at work the day he was given the news about going home on hospice.  I was so honored and humbled when Michele said, "he doesn't want to talk, he only wants me to do Healing Touch."  I showed up late that afternoon.  I started asking about the meeting.  He was very tearful and said he was scared of death.  "I can't talk about it so can we please start the Reiki."  Our sessions were so powerful, I honestly feel he was able to get to a point when he accepted his death and was able to pass on peacefully.

Michael and I would hang out quite a bit. We've became pretty close. We had a lot in common. See, I never cared for clubs, parties, alcohol, ect... And Mike was the same way. We were into the more simple things we considered fun. Theme parks, movies, video games, arcades, playing pool, food! haha, and CARS... Particularly mustangs. I have so many fun and FUNNY memories with Michael I could go on and on. Michael, I miss you so much and there's not one day that goes by without me thinking of you.

My story of Michael goes way back, when he was about 9 years old. Michele brought Michael over to my store on 26 mile and I-94 one Sunday afternoon. They could not have been there more than five minutes, I was standing with Michele, talking, her back to the door, I am facing the large picture window. We were just about to say  "where is Michael" When it caught my eye, someone was swinging from the mailbox, "UP AT The ROAD" Oh my Gosh, it is Michael, swing out on Marine City highway! we gasp and ran. 
Many years have passed since than, that young man grew up and made his parents proud.  Michael seem to be so proud of his yellow Mustang. Very beautiful.
 I love your stories and precious time spent with Michael. Thank God you were able to provide your nursing to your son. And hold him in our arms when you both felt the need for a hug.  I cry inside and out with  every story you shared with me. My heart goes out to you Michele. Michael is in a good hands and a good place. Free of pain and watching over you and the family. Michael, you and the family are in my thoughts and certainly my prayers. 
Love Rochelle Farkas

My favorite memory of Michael was at his high school graduation. I believe it was held at the Palace of Auburn Hills where the Detroit Pistons play. We saw him when the kids first sat down---his last name starts with a V so he was in the back. The kids all lined up to receive their diplomas on stage. When we heard his name called, everyone looked at the stage trying to see him. Low and behold, he was right below us already...they were VERY behind in calling the names.  I yelled out "MICHAEL!!!!!"  He was so excited to see us all cheering just for him!!!!!  That always makes me smile!!!  Love you Michael---save me a seat!!!

I got the pleasure of meeting Michael while he was being treated at the hospital. I will never forget his quick wit at 0300, him laughing with his mom about a program on tv, or the fact that he was always thinking about others, not dwelling on his situation. I treasure the times I got to see him after he was back home, talking with him about anime, cars, and music. It was a true pleasure getting to know him, even if it was for a short time. Michele you and Jerry raised a beautiful son who will be truly missed.

My favorite Michael story is from the first time we went to Jerry and Michele's house after their wedding.  Michael was downstairs playing video games (what a shock) and he asked me to play with him.  Now I'm not a video game person, but it was an opportunity to spend quality time with my new nephew.
Being the expert that he was he destroyed me in game after game, each time telling me how much I sucked!  He was probably 6 or 7 years old and enjoying himself so much.  
He better be ready for a rematch someday because I'm sure he is playing his favorite games right now, and there is a controller with my name on it waiting for me to pick it up.

I will never forget riding along with Michael in his brand new Yellow Ford Mustang. Taking the back roads to and from our family reunion brunch in Temecula. Sometimes he even drove a little too fast for my own comfort!! But still, this will always be a memory I will never forget.

There was the kitchen and stove.  There was Michael.  Bacon, eggs, more eggs, and more eggs.  He loved to cook ... and a crowd of people never daunted him and his ability to feed us all!

A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on. 
Prayers and fond memories are what we have to remember Michael. May the love of family and friends comfort you during these difficult days, our most heartfelt condolences.
We have peace in our hearts knowing he rests in the hands of our Lord and Savior.

Michael gave everyone the strength they need to fight some of the toughest battles in our lives. At least that was something he did for me. From the times we'd spend together when we were little to the time I saw you at Christopher's grad party every time I saw you was a blessing. You impacted so many lives and are missed greatly. Miss you lots Michael. Oh and please look over aunt Vicki for us and give out love to Matthew.

One of my fondest memories of Michael was when he was 9 or 10, and we were at Jerry and Michelle's wedding.  We had such a good time swimming in some pool, where Michael held onto my back as I push us off the side of the pool.  Michael's infectious laugh told me that he has having fun and he would be fine if we did this the rest of the day. I loved it.

It has been a blessing to know Michael.  He always came with a warm smile, fun laugh, and a friendly manner that always made conversation very pleasant. Michael seemed content to delight in good simple activities, like cooking exquisite food for other, driving cool cars, and playing video games; but he really lit up most when he was with friends and family. Michael was also a courageous fighter. He always kept a good disposition even though he knew he was facing an uphill battle.  Michael was a true leader in sweetness.  

We miss you and love you Michael,
Peter & Grace, Elisa, Kent and Loren Dunn

Will forever miss that one of a kind laugh and smile....contagious just thinking of it;) Miss you always.

One of my favorite Michael memories comes from the party Michele and Jerry hosted just before the California move.  Michael had been heavily involved with the food preparation and was clearly thrilled to share it... and talk about it.  

Beaming all the while, Michael pulled me aside early on to give me the low-down on his salsa / hot sauce creations.  Michael was proud, of course, but he also knew that I liked spicy food and he wanted to share this passion with me!  That's Michael!  

I was honored by him then, and continue to be, even more so today... and always.  His joy and love shine on in our hearts and minds.

My dear friend Mike,

Even though you are gone from this earth and never got to visit you and wont hear your voice anymore. I know you are no longer suffering. I will miss your visits here to Michigan and going to Dave & Busters, I will never forget you. You are forever in my heart and you are a brother for life.

The world is a better place because Michael was here to make it that way.  I have so many good memories of Michael, making me laugh, enjoying the little things in life .... Like Gummi Bears !...and talking about cooking. Ok, giving me tips about cooking!

When I think of Michael, I always think of his high school graduation day.  He was a nervous little boy is a sea of kids at the Palace of Auburn Hills. We spotted him in the beginning of the ceremony---he was in the back row (last name did start with a "V"! When the announcer said his name, we all tried to see him on stage receiving his diploma; but he was already down on the floor right in front of us. I stood up, flailing my arms like an idiot screaming his name. He was so excited to us all there supporting him! We were all so proud of him! He accomplished so many things in his short life---a lot more than I have in mine. He kept chasing his dreams---a lot more than I have in mine. They say you always learn something for everyone you meet. Michael taught me to keep chasing my dreams and not to be afraid to go out there and just do it. I'm still trying, Michael.  I Love You!!!

I think about Michael every day. He was a car guy like me and he loved his Mustang, so when I saw one for sale I had to get it. Now we both have one. And being the car guys we are, they have to be a 5 speed. He loved driving his Mustang and had this big smile and utter look of joy whenever he did! He is missed and loved by everyone who knew him! Mustang yellow Michael, always! Randy

Michael, you are like a comet in the sky. Bright and short lasting. The big difference is that a comet becomes smaller and  faints as it reaches Earth. You became bigger and brighter as you were reaching Galaxy. Have a great adventure out there.
I will never forget your double knife chopping technique my fellow cook.
Michele and Jerry, you have an amazing son. You will always have Michael.
Your friends Laura and Matt Lubomirsky.

Knowing Michael, caring for Michael and calling him my friend is a trinity of privilege I will carry with me forever. Even in his last days he would put others first.  He took on every challenge of his illness with courage and dignity.  I feel so blessed to have known him, whether I was sitting quietly beside him, or engaged in endless conversation about wow, cooking, travel - you pick a topic and he could tell you all about it - whatever it was, sharing space with him had meaning.  Thank you, Michael, for these precious memories. .

Michael, My one regret is that we were unable to spend more time together. I will always remember your courage against great odds. you fought a good fight to the end. Uncle Mark

So terribly sorry to read of the end of brave fight against circumstance most cruel.  Sympathy extended to the family and all those who came into contact with him and knew Mike to be kind and dignified in the face of much.  

Michael Kotwick - Debbie Vickery's brother situated in SE Michigan

Know that I love you Michele and Jerry. I am there with you dear friends. God has healed Michael completely and all is well in heaven now that he is home.  Praying that God will keep you in his arms and heal your shattered hearts. XX, love, lori SC girl

As a friend of Vicki and Chris Hodnicak in Nashville, I feel I have learned a bit about what a kind soul Michael is.  I know he is resting in heaven, and I pray for all he left behind, that you will be comforted now until the time you are reunited.

Nephew with a strong heart, put up a fight. Lots of memories for all to share. We will miss you.
Aunt Vicki

OBITUARY

Michael Vickery

May 9, 1986 – June 14, 2015

Harry J Will Funeral Homes

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