I've been going through my pictures lately, and I came upon this one a few days ago.
This was taken at Lake Powell, probably in the late 80's or early 90's. My family goes there every year, even since before I was born. I have many fond memories there.My Uncle Mike loved photography, and he had an awesome camera that he would carry with him. Thanks to him we have some great pictures, especially of our Grandpa. I don't know why I made this sign for him to take a picture...maybe he asked me. I'm not sure.
Driving with Uncle Mike to Powell was the best, because he had a huge van with lots of room to stretch out in, and he always had a cooler full of ice cold Pepsis, many of which I partook :) It was fun playing with my cousins Lindsay & Jenny, and it made the 12 hour trip go by a lot faster.
Mike was always cheerful, a very pleasant man. He had a great laugh. He loved to joke and to tickle me! He was an expert mechanic, and I know he got tired of us always calling when we had car trouble! But he was always willing to help. He's my dad's older brother, and they look a lot alike, except for Uncle Mike's ever-present beard. I wish I had a picture to post here, but he preferred to be behind the lens.
I just found out that my Uncle Mike passed away today, peacefully, in his sleep. I am still in shock, as he was very young, and there were really no warnings. He leaves behind his beautiful wife Mary, and his two daughters Jenny & Lindsay, as well as 3 grandchildren. He was a wonderful man, a great father, and he will be sorely missed.
I hadn't talked to him in awhile, not since my grandmother's funeral. He only lives an hour away, but life just seems to get in the way of spending time with family these days. I regret that. I joked about calling him last week with my dad after my accident, but I didn't want a car problem to be the reason I called him out of the blue, so I didn't. I regret that too.
At times like these, I am so thankful for the gospel, the knowledge that Mike is okay. He is actually the lucky one, free from these worldly cares. He gets to have a lovely reunion now with his parents. Although I regret not taking opportunities recently to show him that I care, I know that he knows I love him, and I know that I will get to tell him that again someday.
Until we meet again, I love you Uncle Mike!
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