Born on June 29, 1990 to Susan and Larry Bartlett, Michael was always known for his kindness, sensitivity and care for others. He was a graduate of Grossmont High School and was a starter on the varsity football team. He attended college at Grossmont Community College and the University of Southern California, majoring in Philosophy, Politics and Law, and studying films and screenwriting.
Michael will always be remembered for his smile that could light up a room and his gentle soul that loved all life. He deeply loved his two standard poodles and dedicated his life to training and nurturing them. He was passionate about music, cinematography, his way of being and his most importantly his family. His parents were by his side through every moment in his short life. He had an endearing impact on everyone who met him, and this has been especially apparent and comforting to the family through the outpouring of love they have received.
As a young man with both passion and an intense sense of empathy, Michael was always searching. Searching for truths and meaning in the world. He was a lifelong reader of philosophy, history, and science collecting the thoughts of Sophocles to Machiavelli and from Nietzsche to the Bible. Michael was also the subject of an idiopathic mental illness, which he battled for several years. He suffered valiantly, but ultimately succumbed to this quiet and insidious disease just days after his 29th birthday.
Michael is survived by his parents, Larry and Susan; his older sister Blair (Bobby) Azamian; his maternal grandmother Marge Thoeny; his half-sisters Susie (Mike) Cardey, Vickie (Joe) Meier, Amy (Michael) Dennis; his two dogs Coalie (11 years) and Charlie “Bones” (6 months); his aunt Julie Thoeny, uncle Scott (Carmen) Thoeny and many friends. Michael was a loving uncle to ten and great-uncle to nine.
His survivors will live their lives forever influenced by and in the memory of Michael. With the hope of helping others who are suffering and have isolated themselves, Michael’s family ask that his friends and loved ones make a donation in honor of Michael to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation. They hope his final disconnection from others can give light to those trapped in darkness and help others never feel alone.
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