We knew Mike as our 2 time guide on the Gauley river. Many may see this as a passing thing, a happenstance luck of the draw per se.  We asked for Mike  as his skills were world class right along with his character and personality.  Mike joined us  for a drink or 2 at our camp and we really got to know more about him.  People are complex but Mike had a deep, intellectual but simple love of the outdoors, rafting  and skiing.  His  main topic, and love , was his wife and their life together.  
Our group, all family, were back at the Gauley this weekend for our annual get together.  We learned of Mike’s passing from his best friend Troy,  our guide.  Although our relationship with Mike was brief, it had  an effect on all of us. We will always think of our friend  on our trips and pray that he is at peace . Our deepest condolences to All of Mike’s family and friends.  Gos bless you  all-  

From The Simms and family - Kenny, John, Tom, Danny , Tony, Stan K, Jim T and   Jed T and Jason J

I will miss you forever, cousin...rest well...

We had fun while we could, I wish I had more time to make my own memories with him, but I'll treasure the stories.

I worked with Mike guiding rock climbers and guiding whitewater rafts on the New and Gauley Rivers in WV. He was a gifted adventurer and he cared about people. He possesses a strong intellect and he focused on how to solve safety puzzles to ensure the safety of others. I remember watching him digest complex rope/knot scenarios and master them. I was on the trip when he “topped out” as an Upper Gauley guide during his first year (very fast progression). I saw him handle intense pressure that made other people frown, and he always gave you this delighted smile. He enjoyed struggle and sharing adventures with other people while exercising the discipline to keep them alive. We remember him with love. God bless his soul, his wife, his family. 

I DID NOT KNOW HIM BUT MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..MANY EMPLOYEES WILL MISS HIM GREATLY...REST IN PEACE

Dear Julia and family, we met Mike shortly before your wedding. We could tell immediately that he was a wonderful man.  Over the years we heard only nice things about Mike. We were happy for all of you. 
He will be missed by so many people and especially you Julia and your families. 
Love,
Aunt Sally and Uncle Rich

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Michael "Mike" James Edwards

March 21, 1976 – October 4, 2022

Dodd Payne Hess Funeral Home

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