Michael:  Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. Five years without you have caused me great pain and grief. Your memory lives forever with me.  Toot your trumpet in Heaven, Michael. Love ya guy,
Ron

4th Anniversary.  Michael, I was in Campbell yesterday at Memorial Gardens — I placed a Lynch Creek wreath at your marker. I miss you so much. Go NFL, Michael!

I will always remember you with the smile on your face, You took this picture an being on my photos all these years, miss you!! Yadira

2nd Anniversary—You are greatly missed, Michael. 

Marjorie and I vividly remember the call on Thanksgiving Morning,  2020 in Branson,  Mo informing us  of Michael's unexpected passing.  We shall never forget and wish Ron ....peace and solitude.

Marjorie Stevens and Don Bimes.....Omaha, NE

Our 100 years young friend, Marjorie Stevens, and my brother Don, both of Omaha, Nebraska, and I visited Memorial Gardens in southeast Missouri this past Tuesday.  Michael’s bronze marker looks sharp! And I laid Yellow Roses of Texas at his marker; also the graves of his parents.  I will have Lynch Creek Farm live fresh wreaths sent to those markers at Christmas.  Michael loved Lynch Creek Farm. You are greatly missed, Michael. Go NFL!

We are extremely proud of the Bronze Marker placed in the Grave Site next to Michael's Parents....There is no  Greater Love than a Parent's Love...... However, we know that Ron and Michael had Mountains of Affection for Each Other...Rest in Peace Michael in Kennett-Campbell, Missouri.   We will never forget you!

Ron, I can’t believe Michael is gone. I was thinking of you guys and decided to call you. Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would hear the sad news.  Randy and I had some wonderful times with you and Michael when we all lived at LaBahia on Pensacola Beach. 

I am here for you, Ron.  Please keep in touch. 

Love, 

Joanne

Michael’s ashes were scattered on February 23, 2021 in the Gulf waters in front of LaBahia Condominiums on Pensacola Beach, at his request.  Michael was full of life, and is now sailing around the world!  Michael, you are deeply missed.  John 3:16; 8:58  🎺 

Michael was my hospitality tutor and dear friend. I would have loved to say soo much to him. He was a role model to me and I can honestly say that he helped me be the person that I am today because he was true to himself and a happy soul. I miss him. 

Update:  Seven weeks after Michael’s unexpected and sudden passing, his beloved ten year old pup, Will, joined him in Heaven yesterday. Will was full of a spirited life until a week ago when a cancerous tumor was detected.  I brought him home from the animal hospital on Saturday afternoon for one more night with me; I said my goodbyes to him on Sunday morning at Metairie Small Animal Hospital. He is now under the care of Heaven’s Pets at Lake Lawn Crematory.  WOW!  What a great dog! ❤️ 

Dear Ron,
My deepest sympathy and caring thoughts go out to you. Michael was the love of your life. I am so glad he shared his with you.  Be well! 

Sincere thanks to Hilton Honors for this photo. I am enjoying the camaraderie with some of the employees this afternoon watching the New Orleans Saints!

Ron it is with great sadness to hear of Michael passing and I sincerely give you my deepest sympathy. I been knowing you since I first moved in 2007 and you have been nothing but kind and sweet to me and I really appreciate that and it's sad to see you leave. If anything I can do for you just let me know. May God take care of you and protect you.

Brad at 116

Dear Ron

Sorry to hear of Michael’s passing on Thanksgiving. My deepest
condolences and prayers go out to you and his family.

I was shocked and saddened when I received your letter.  Thanks
for the gift card.

I enjoyed our time sitting around the pool.   I am sorry to hear that
you will be leaving New Orleans.

I wish you all the best in all your endeavors.

Your neighbor at Pier 8
GLINDA

I had never met Michael but, knowing Ron, he had to have been a special man.

Ron will have thousands of great memories of Michael, and I hope these thoughts  will help to comfort him during these very difficult times.

So sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories growing up with him. He was like a brother to me. I will be praying for you!

I am so very sorry for your loss! Although I did not see Michael often, he was family and he will be missed. Sending prayers to you! 💜

I met Michael and Ron in the Bahamas about 15 years ago, and we became fast friends. I pet sit their dogs, first Hunter, and now Will. My deepest condolences to Ron. Michael will be missed. Love, Barbara 

I met Michael through a family connection years ago, when I came to New Orleans on a business trip.  It was a last minute plan, I had a bad back, and was trying to find a room somewhere near the Convention Center. Despite being outrageously busy, Michael took the time to find me one, at his Hilton, right across the street so I wouldn't have far to walk.  He was so kind! 
Later, with my cousin Elaine, I had a chance to join Michael and Ron at home, cheering on their beloved Saints.  Michael was a dear, sweet, generous and loving man to both his friends and his family. He will be missed but always remembered with great fondness.  
Rest gently with the Angels, Michael.

Mike was a one of a kind man, truly genuine with a good old soul..

I received a beautiful white wooden plaque in today’s mail. I cried when I opened the package. I called “Personal Creations”, and they said the person (s) who sent it wish to remain anonymous. I conveyed my sincere, warm thanks. 

Michael (and Ron) are part of our wonderful memories of living in New Orleans and spending time at Pier 8.  He was always kind and welcoming and be greatly missed.  Rest in Peace, Michael......we cherish our CD's that you and Ron sent us when we moved.  I know you are enjoying the trumpets of the Angels!

Will miss hanging out with you and Ron watching games or by the pool.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  Rest easy. 

Our Christmas cards this year, which were mailed out a few days before Michael’s sudden passing.

I worked at the Hampton Inn and Suites of New Orleans as area sales manager. So I only worked with Michael indirectly and directly for a short time.  No matter, the times that I did, he was professional, great customer service and reliable manager.

I will miss him and send thoughts and prayers to Ron and the Hampton Inn family.

Martha 

Arrangement sent to the Front Desk of Hampton-Hilton Honors by the National Guard, frequent hotel guests. 

I had the pleasure of knowing Michael for over 20 years.  I had some good memories with him. His wit and charm were noteworthy. Despite his medical condition Michael was a FIGHTER . His strength  and courage kept him working at his job right to the end. Michael you were ONE TOUGH HOMBRE. May you rest in peace. 

I was very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Michael. I first met Michael at the invitation of Ron to attend his Saints party. Michael will be remembered fondly for his great sense of humor and his kindness to everyone he met. Thank God for the memories of the multitude of parties, birthday dinners and late evening talks over a glass of wine. We will have to carry those memories with us for the rest of our lives.

Romans 14:7-9
 7 None of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. 8 If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's. 9 For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.

We’ve never had the pleasure of meeting Michael but know of his talent and generous spirit. When Tom was diagnosed with carcinoid cancer, he and Ron were gracious to arrange and pay for our accommodations while he visited Oschner.  
Our sympathies to all who knew him and loved him.  Gone far too soon.  Sending our love & prayers!! Tom, Jenny, Austin & Conner Sanders

I have fond memories of visiting Michael and Uncle Ron. The last time Tim and I were in New Orleans we were able to meet Michael and Uncle Ron for dinner. I also loved meeting Michael and Uncle Ron for breakfast at Michael's beautiful hotel. I always enjoyed talking with Michael and I will miss him. He was a wonderful person. Sending love and support to all who knew and loved him.

I will miss Michael. His crazy sox collection and fashion sense is only surpassed by his generous spirit.  We are lessened by his passing.

Mr. Ron Bimes:  Our condolences to you. Your ProBono tax services are greatly appreciated. 

What I'm feeling right now is hard to put in words, Michael Wakefield was a good friend, We had worked together since 2002 to the day, he died, it's hard seeing his desk empty,  he was part of the Hampton's family for the last 18 years. He was such a creative person always laughing and making fun about everything. His nickname  is 'Sugar', I called Michael sugar since day one because he was too sweet. I am so sorry he left to soon...I love him and always will remember him. Our love and support will be here for you Ron❤

I worked with Michael at the Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center for a few years. Here we are 17yrs later and I find out he has passed. He was such a beautiful soul! I always remember him. We shared so many laughs at that front desk. So sad I was not able to see or speak to him. My condolences to Michael’s family and the Hilton family. 🙏🏽❤️

Ron:  It is with great sadness and heartache to hear of Michael's sudden death.  Michael was a kind wonderful friend to Charles and I.  We enjoyed many visits over the years especially the Saints Football parties at the mirage of different condo's, the card games, St. Patrick's parade, dinners and breakfast  Birthday parties with linen table cloths and candles.  He was always kind to everyone he met and had an undying love of the puppies Will and ZsaZsa.  Over the last few months, we had many conversations,  Michael's  Heart was always in the right place.  He will be greatly missed by his loved ones and friends.   JOB WELL DONE GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT.  May the Grace of Mary Virgin Mother give you Peace .  Always in our Hearts...............Charles and Ava Romair 

I have fond memories of being with Michael and my Uncle Ron in Greenville, Illinois.  We were on the hunt  for fresh walnuts. I am really sorry to hear the news of Michael’s passing. Sending my love to Uncle Ron and all those who were close to Michael. 

A beautiful arrangement from our 99 years young friend, Marjorie Stevens of Omaha. ❤️ 

Michael has been a co-worker and friend for 15 (plus) years. He will certainly be missed by me and all who have had the pleasure of knowing him. My thoughts go out to his family, Ron and friends.

Michael,
We will miss your quiet charm and kind sensitive concern for others that blessed us all.
Prayers for the Bimes and Todd families.

Until We Meet Again, 

Robert and Linda Gebhardt 

Michael was the man that hired me. Over five years later and there wasn't a day that went by that I didn't get some crazy story and jokes coming from him. I am saddened by his sudden loss but know that I will see him again!

Adios, amigo! May God embrace you. Your memory will always remain in our hearts.

Michael was loved so dearly by my mom, Brenda and our family.  She always told such fond memories of their childhood together in Missouri. She spoke so proudly of the work he did for the Hampton Inn & Suites and he truly will be missed. 

So grateful he had Ron and his family in his life and all the great years of friendship they had together. 

From his sisters we loved him and will miss him dearly. Happy he had Ron and his family at the Hampton’s 

The New Orleans Advocate/Times Picayune, dated Sunday, November 29, 2020.  Fly High, Michael!!

Michael has a special place in my heart, and he will be missed by me and everyone who passed through the doors of the Hampton Inn & Suites - Convention Center over the past 18 years!  He was a very loyal and reliable coworker and friend.  He had a true passion for customer service, and in his prime he would take care of guests like no one else could. I would always have him take care of the most difficult guests as he would never take anything personal, and he would always make them satisfied. Ron you are in my constant thoughts and prayers. 🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛

Michael became a fast friend of our military family during the Covid pandemic while we were staying at the Hampton. He was always willing to help and made our mission less mundane. He made me feel like family as I lived there for over 6 months. The world definitely lost something special in Michael, and many lost a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with all who knew him.

Michael was a great neighbor to us and we will certainly miss his friendship and kindness. We pray for Ron and his family during this sad time.

Finally, Michael budged at my asking for us to take a photo together during my annual visit to see him in 2017. 

We first met in 2006 when he hired me. I could not have asked for a better manager. So much so that a few times each year since then, I'd stop by the hotel to visit him. During at least one annual visit, I always reminded him that still, he was the best manager I've ever had. When I visited him a few weeks ago, yep, I reminded him of his greatness again. 

I'll dearly miss his patience, humor, kindness, ability to stay calm, and his opening phrase during our catch-up visits, "girl, so listen to this!" 

My condolences to Ron, his baby dogs, and his family. 

Rest Peacefully, Michael. Until we meet again. 

Chasity

We are saddened to hear of Michael's passing.  Sorry we never got to meet him, but glad you (Ron) had him as a dear friend.  Our sincere condolences to you, his family, work family, and friends.  We will be praying for everyone as he will be missed.  May God be with you all at this difficult time.

Ron, we are truly saddened to hear of Michael's passing. You and your family are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.  Michael was a blessing from above who touched so many lives.  We will miss him dearly.

Vinnie and Cami

We write this with a very heavy heart.  Michael and Ron had reservations to fly into Omaha on Dec. 2 to celebrate an early Christmas and Michael's 60th Birthday with us. This Untimely and Unexpected event, along with the Pandemic is Beyond Tragic for us.
Fly High Michael.......What a deep Honor to have had you in our lives also.
Marjorie Stevens and Donald Bimes ----Omaha, NE

We are so saddened to hear of Michael’s passing.  May he Rest In Peace. Our sincere condolences to his family, work family and friends. Prayers to all.  He will, undoubtedly, be missed. 

Michael was a kind and spirited person. Always fun and joyful. Michael will definitely be missed!  
Love, Erin McCrossen

Ron Bimes in 1992, an auditor with the Department of Justice. My job made Michael and me to relocate to St Louis, Chicago, Washington DC,  and Pensacola Beach.  Finally ending up in New Orleans in 2002 — We loved the culture of the swamps in Louisiana!  LOL!

Our 8 year old pup, Will, whom Michael adored. Undoubtedly, this pup was the boss of our condo complex — Will will truly miss his master, Michael. 

Michael with former Missouri State Representative Tommy Todd and his wife at the funeral of Matriarch Mary Todd in Campbell, Missouri in 2007 — Michael was raised on the Todd Farm. 

Ron, 
Bob and I are heartbroken to hear of the sudden death of Michael.  You and Michael have always gone out of your way to everyone who crossed your path.   This world was a kinder place because of Michael being in it.  We are all better people for having known him and you.  May Michael rest in peace, and may the good Lord bless you!
In our hearts and prayers,
Bob and Monica Field

Ron, so upset to hear the sad news! You and Michael were always so sweet to my family. Michael will be with you always! He will be your angel always looking out for you! 
Love, The Bourgeois Family

Michael, you were so sweet and smart and a good, good guy.  We all grew up together, you will be missed.  
Love you,
Paula

Dear Wakefield Family,
My husband and I are very saddened to hear about the passing of Michael.  My sister and I worked with Michael at the Hampton for 5 years since 2005.   I still remember his jokes, his sense of humor,  he was always smiling regardless of what was going on,  he was never upset.   I remember he will come to the desk singing and everyone knew that was him.             He will truly be missed!! 

Rest In Peace Michael Wakefield 

Daffne & Bernard Enclard 

Michael,
You were a good friend in school, and made band trips fun!  You will be missed!
Pam

Michael, I remember that you were one of the first people I met and talked to at Pier 8. You and Ron are some of the kindest people I have ever known. Love you.

I have lost a dear and close friend of 35 years, Michael E. Wakefield. It was a total shock that he suffered a brain aneurysm at his office, passing away 15 hours later on Thanksgiving morning.  Your pup, Will, and I will truly miss you. Go NFL, Wakefield!!

OBITUARY

Michael Edward Wakefield

December 10, 1960 – November 26, 2020

Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders