It is with profound sadness that I must report the passing of our former chairman, boss, mate, friend, Rockape and fellow Amiga user Michael on the 7th March.
Having met all the way back in 2006, I feel privileged to regard him as a close friend. I personally can not begin to put in to words how much he will be missed. I shall miss the curries, the late night Red Dwarf binge watching, the random texts to see how I’m doing, the jokes, the ribbing and least I forget the years of Bottom episode quotes we shared.
As much as I could sit here and be woeful, I want whomever reads this to know something of Michael and the kind, generous guy that he was. He loved the club, he loved Amiga’s, at least when they worked.
How can I forget, nearly a decade of being the go to guy for getting his A1200 on the halls wifi. I’d love to say it’s because I channel some elemental internet wizardry, but the truth is, I was sitting across from Rock at every meeting and he would always collar me. Did I mind? never, even though I complained, moaned. There was never a question I wouldn’t get behind his A1200 and fiddle with it until he got on IRC and announced on the Amiga.org channel “Live from Lag”.
I wish I could tell me friend just how many people have messaged the club, left messages on Facebook and expressed their sadness at his passing. I can only extended my deepest sympathies to his family and hope some comfort can be found, knowing Michael will be remembered for a long time to come and by so many.
When Michael appointed me as his replacement, I saw my role more as a caretaker, running the club as I thought my friend would wish. Nothing has changed, I’ll forever be honoured he entrusted me with something that he cherished so much.
Now for one final time and because I’m certain Michael would be disappointed with me were I to break the habit. I’ll end this here, with one final quote from a TV show both he and I knew like the back of our hand.
SPUDGUN: I wonder what the Romans used to do before telly?
DAVE HEDGEHOG: They probably had their tea.
Rest easy Michael and thank you from all of us!
– James
Chairman Lincolnshire Amiga Group
