Mikey I have so many memories of us together.  We worked together, we partied together, we went to see Chicago together and just hung out together.  I miss you so much.  I wish I could hug you again.  You will always be with me in spirit.  Till we meet again. . .

I too met Mikey and Foley while working at AT&T. We would go out for lunch a lot and party with friends after work. We’ve been friends forever it seems. I found out he passed away when I didn’t hear from him after I texted him. I know he was in poor health. I am so sad I will never have another chance to speak to my dear old friend again.  As someone else also said there will be a big whole in my heart now. You loved so many and so many loved you. I hope your troubles are over and you are reunited with Wendy, Foley and Brent. Love you 😘 and miss you.  Til we meet again. ..

I used to be employed with his Dialysis unit, I saw him every week. Remember when first came there, he had his dog.  He was always very polite and very independent.  

Been crying all day today at the news my childhoood friend Michael Townsend (Androshick) passed away and that I missed his memorial service this past Saturday (I didn't know...I'm so sorry, Mike).. Michael was my friend since I was 12 years old, more than 50 years. We met in Mrs Griffin's 7th grade English class at Maxson Juniior High School.. Mike was blind from birth, but he never let that stop him from achieving his goals. We were in the concert and marching bands together throughout jr. high, and high school. We connected again in 1988 when we both worked at AT&T in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, when he had his beloved service dog, Foley. He was one of the first people who bought one of my quiches, and he loved it. When I delivered it to him, we reminisced about old times, and laughed about the good times in English class like it was yesterday. Love you, Mike...I miss you so much...I am soooo sad!

Mike and Wendy were down the hall in Aikens dorm freshman year at Susquehanna and became part of a large group of friends for  four years (now 40 years).  I always marveled at Mike's musical talent and his ability to remember people's voices even after many years.   I trust Mike now enjoys full sight.  Bill Boulden          

I met Mike and Wendy at Susquehanna University in 1975- we shared a love of music and would often sit and talk about various bands. I was always amazed at his level of musical knowledge. One day Mike convinced me to open for him at the Governor Snyder Hotel in beautiful downtown Selinsgrove PA. I was nervous but Mike said to me, "You're among friends here" and that was all it took. 35 years later I was back out playing a small bar in NJ and Mike contacted me on FB because of a picture of me performing and he asked if I was still playing the same songs and he miraculously remembered my set list from 35 years ago song for song. I was so happy that we caught up with each other after so many years - I wish there was more time that  we could have shared. Rest easy old friend- until we meet again.....

Mike  and his dog travel with me to work at AT&T for  couple years in the late 1990s . He was always appreciative,  kind .  He always look out for his friends and treat them well.  He will be missed.

Mike rode shot gun with his dog Foley while I drove the AT&T Co Van. For a blind man he was so intelligent and always kept the van in stitches. He had cute names for us and we kept in touch long after I retired from AT&T.  I will treasure his friendship always and I am sorry he lost his life at such a young age. Rest in peace Mike and look over Lady Di.

I first met Mike in November 1996 when I was his supervisor.  When I moved on to other assignments we stayed in contact and developed a nice friendship.  I will miss our conversations whether they were over the phone during my commute home from work or talking at his kitchen table over a dinner of pizza or sandwiches.  Mike always had this uncanny ability to "ground me" when I had something that was bothering me.  His leaving has left a void that will not be replaced.

I met Mike while working at AT&T in the 1980's. He worked in the word processing center typing dictation tapes. He was always a blessing and enjoyed a friendship with him even until his passing.  I have so many memories that I really don't where to start. We even enjoyed bringing the new year in together on the phone. I will definitely miss him. I will miss him more than words can show.  

I was in Mike's dorm hall our freshman year of college at Susquehanna University. I had the privilege of getting to know Mike personally and I was able to see him perform often with his singing and piano playing. Although he would often unofficially "perform" by singing while walking up the hall, he also professionally performed on weekends in a local hotel in Selinsgrove. He was immensely talented. Ironically it was because of his performing that I just learned of his death. I was watching America's Got Talent last night and watched a young man, who was blind, sing and play the piano, and that prompted me to google Mikes name. I was shocked to learn of his very recent death.  Although I did not stay in touch after college, I none the less have thought of him often and consider it a great privilege to have known him. Rest in peace Michael.  

Mike was our very good friend at Susquehanna. Mike left an indelible mark on everyone he knew. Here is the image that has stuck with me:  the dorm is quiet. Mike comes out of his room - dogless - and walks down the hall, clicking his fingers and singing to himself.  He's echolocating. 
 Love ya, Mikey.


I attended Susquehanna with Mike.... 

I have an indelible memory of Mike playing the piano and singing with Wendy at his feet.  Mike was always fun. He had a great passion for music and a wonderful sense of humor.  I was so sad to hear of his passing.  Wherever you are, Mike, save a side of the piano bench for me.... I want to hear you sing , just one more time. 

Patty Gossett Silvestri

OBITUARY

Michael R. Townsend

November 26, 1954 – May 20, 2019

McCracken Funeral Home

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