14 months ago, Uncle Mike was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, and given 4 months to live. He made it till a week ago today, and in keeping with his lifelong passion for people, his final year saw countless people through his doors. I got to be with him 3 weeks ago! These last few days have been an incredible celebration of his life, and thankfully there is already a wealth of online information that I don't have to duplicate. My brother took a lot of pictures. Jim Schenkel summarized (see the addendum) his experience of one of the wakes, the funeral, and the burial. The Buffalo News has an obituary. I'm waiting/looking for a copy of the 1-2 minute spot that was carried on the news that evening. It was truly a powerful tribute, to a passionate, faithful man. Still thinking about you, Mike! Maybe I'll have a bike someday too. :)
(PS: I found a clip of the television news coverage! It's a short spot that will give you a glimpse of how expansive the funeral was..)
4 comment(s):
The little time I did get to talk to him and what I remember about him was that he lived life to the fullest. He seemed to be a pretty free spirit, something that all of us should strive for.
Your Uncle Mike seemed to have quite a positive effect on those around. That's a wonderful thing. I only knew him through your words in the blogosphere. Thanks for sharing.
Hey Justin. I'm sorry to hear about him passing. But I read Jim's summary of his funeral and I was astounded at the amount and the diversity of the people present. What an amazing person he must have been. Thinking of you! Have a loverly thanksgiving, eat lots of good food.
Justin and family. We are very sorry for your loss.
I am Kim Capasso, my wife Lorrie and I live in Wyoming.
I have known your uncle for 35 years.
Both you and your brother have done a wonderfull thing honering Mike in your blogs. You guys are very savy on the computer!
I have called Mark Hummel and will call your aunt Karen so they can enjoy your efforts.
Thanks again for giving me the opertunity to view more about him, I think about him all the time.
Sincerley Kim & Lorrie Capasso
Post a Comment