Mike was the first friend I met at college.We had the camping bug very strong. We would leave on Fridays and hitchhike to Boulder.We would stay at Grandma Tigers on the living room floor.At that time Grandma Tiger had a border who was a teacher.Her room was part of the living room with a sheet as her privacy wall. When we woke up,Grandma Tiger had a home made apple pie and a loaf of bread.After breakfast,we would hitchhike up Canyon Road and find a place to camp.We did this as many weekends as we could.We had a plastic sheet and a rope strung between two trees as our tent and pine bows for the floor and doors. We gave Grandma Tiger a clock radio for her birthday,but I can't remember which birthday we celebrated. There are hundreds of stories.We spent alot of time together and had very high respect for each other. We were loyal friends and talked s few times a year to catch up.I just wish I would have known about Mike's death.I would have been there to say go by.

Mike was my roommate at Regis, and a camping buddy with me and Mark Aylward, now a dentist in St. Louis. We would camp every coupla weeks, often at Nederland above Boulder, even in the winter months with snow on the ground. We had some great times and good talks around the fire. Mike's nickname for me was head squirrel killer and beaver eater! Just cause I'd killed a squirrel and we cooked him over the fire to eat!

Mark Aylward called and was very saddened to learn of Mike's death. He had a great sense of humor and was just fun to be with. We will miss him.

My sympathies go out to Mike's family.  I went to grammer school at I.C. with Mike as well as high school at Benet.  My dad was a teacher and coach at I.C. and e ran Knight's Day Camp around Elmhurst, Villa Park etc. Mike used to go to the camp each summer.  My dad then went out to Benet in the mid '60's and he used to drive Mike and others out to Bent until we all got driver's licenses.  I was never a close friend of Mike's but we were friends and I lost touch with him as well as others over time.  I'm sorry for your loss and I wish you all well.  Sincerely, Steve Shields

Mike was a high school classmate and friend. He brought his unlimited good nature and that magnificent smile to brighten up our teenage gatherings – horseplay between classes -- pep-rallies with the “Wingmen” – cheering-on the Redwings teams. In the fall of ‘69 we built what may have been the school’s biggest, home coming bon fire of all time.

Thanks for sharing your spirit with us, Mike.

My godfather may be gone from our sight but never from our hearts...

Uncle Mike will always be loved and missed.

Dear Mike, You had,
... the most captivating eyes of any creature God ever fashioned.
...an amazing sense of adventure
...loyalty to God, family & friends
...a strong faith
...sound character
...you brought joy & laughter to my life in sickness and in health
...you sported a rough exterior yet bore a heart soft as 'down'
...when God created you He truly did break the mold
...you taught me so much in life, in your death I continue to learn
...your absence leaves me empty
Heaven will never be the same and neither...shall I. Now that you are gone I shed 'marigold tears'.
I miss you. I love you.

Mike was one of the first friends I made when I got to Regis-he was like a big brother to me. I am so sorry for his loss, but I am sure the memories he created with his family and friends will bring great comfort.

Mike's will to live and love of life was huge.  I will miss my best friend more than I can express, but am glad his suffering is over.  Mike, Cindy, Mike Jr., and Luke are in my prayers daily, and will remain in them forever.

Cindy - I was very saddened to hear about your Michael.  You and he were the first 2 patients I remember when I started here 6 years ago.  I am certainly hugging you in my thoughts.  My prayers are with you.

OBITUARY

Michael Duane Tiger

February 27, 1952 – February 15, 2011

Olinger Funeral, Cremation & Cemetery - Chapel Hill

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