Mike and I geeked out over our joint love of music and culture. Talking to him about music ended always in a longer discussion, which I treasure. I was fortunate enough to acquire vinyl from Mike's extensive catalog. I remember getting the list from him, professionally and meticulously written. His collection was obviously extremely well edited and put together with thought. It showed Mike's wide range of interest in music and contained great examples of output through a large number of genres. I can't help to think that this collection is a great reflection of his interests and generosity of spirit. Whenever I put a piece of vinyl on my turntable, I am remembered of his deep knowledge. I will continue to remember him fondly.

I miss Mike already.  Our conversations centered around the NBA, and he was a stats encyclopedia with his recall of past players and teams.  I always learned something new when I spoke with him, and am thankful for all of those conversations we had.  And one of these days the Knicks will win a championship and I'll smile, thinking of how excited and proud Mike would be to see them finally win.  

Mike's passing was unfortunately ironic as it's important for friends and loved ones to know how proud he was feeling his final day on earth. Several months earlier he had nominated our organization for an innovation in business award using his special gift of writing style we all admired so much. The judges did too. As they picked our company to win, almost every selection was complimentary of the submission's writing style, almost more so than the innovation itself. Mike's flurry of emails reporting the win showed how happy he was. And we were all happy for him. If there was ever a way for life to end, know Mike went out feeling good about doing what he loved. We're all proud of you too, Mike. Thank you.

Mike has changed my life more than he could ever imagine, he’s taught me the most valuable lesson in this lifetime which is to be present and to really pay attention to the people who surround you. He took a genuine interest in my life and everyone else he talked to. Mike knew everything, you could talk to him about anything and I would learn something new every time I talked to him, he even talked to me about bird watching! I’m very blessed to have known him, I wish I had the opportunity to know him better. He was a once in a lifetime soul and I hope to meet him again in another life. I am so sorry this happened to him, but so grateful we crossed paths. Rest In Peace Mike. 

When I first started working at the business where I met Mike, he was one of the first few employees to really talk to me. We had a fire drill and we were all standing down in the parking lot and I was there just kind of keeping to myself and he came up to me to ask me if I like the band Black Sabbath. I excitedly responded "yes!" and described how they are one of heavy metal's legendary godfather groups. He then tells me how he got to interview the drummer, Bill Ward, once. He talked about how they were discussing artists with rock star attitudes and what not. I remember being totally fascinated. Not long after that, he sent me an article where he interviewed Lars Ulrich, the drummer of Metallica, for the LA Times. Mike and I would always talk music when we bumped in to each other. The talks would usually last quite a while and I enjoyed every minute of it. From Metallica, Dio and Judas Priest to Allan Holdsworth, Uriah Heep and other bands all over the spectrum. Nobody else could talk music like Mike with me. I'll always remember his kind and gentle demeanor, witty quips, intelligence and of course music talk. 

Mike was a constant positive spirit in our office and an incredibly considerate listener.  We shared a love for Broadway; he kept me updated on the latest productions at our local theater whenever we ran into each other at the coffee machine.  

Mike's job was important to him, but he encouraged me to make time outside of work to nurture my hobbies, care for myself, and be with my family.   Amid the phone calls, emails and deadlines, he was the one who paused to ask, "How are you?"  I am going to miss that.

In my time working with him, Mike was unfailingly helpful, unassuming, and just fun to be around.  He consistently sent me articles and information that he suggested for me to read to benefit my business, taking time to share ideas when he didn't have to, but chose to.  He and I shared the love of a good turn of phrase or reminiscing about 80's hair bands (given we're of a similar vintage).  I'll miss his wit, gentleness and ready smile.

OBITUARY

Michael Lewis Boehm

23 October, 1955 – 2 May, 2019

Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Memorial Park & Mortuary

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