Michael lit up our lives on the day he was born, and though he died last November, he still lives on in our hearts. Born with a physical disability, he faced many challenges, and doctors told us his future was not at all bright. But his eyes told us otherwise, and his life proved them wrong. He had a true zest for life, and everyone who knew him noted his positive outlook, as well as his quick wit, infectious laugh, and sarcastic sense of humor. When his younger sister, Katie, joined the family, he was initially a bit wary, but they developed a strong friendship and love that lasted until his death.
As a child, Michael embraced life and took advantage of opportunities as they presented themselves. He enjoyed swimming, horseback riding, sit-skiing, and archery. He attended Wheelchair Sports Camp many times and participated in swim meets all over California. Michael was active in Cub and Boy Scouts and Goleta Presbyterian Church youth group. Michael was thrilled when, as a preschooler, he was asked to help light the Christmas tree downtown, and he became a virtual poster boy in the coverage of disability issues.
Michael loved to travel and spent many summers in Germany with his family, where he delighted in the castles, chocolate, and cows. Like his archaeologist father, he truly enjoyed digging in Germany; he would hop out of his wheelchair and sit or lie on the ground to dig, getting filthy, of course, and enjoying every minute. On one dig, Michael used crutches to go watch a student water-screen dirt for small artifacts over a pit full of muddy water. He became so absorbed looking for shards in the screen that he actually fell face-first into the puddle. It didn’t faze him; he just popped up (with help) and carried on.
