Mike was a gentle caring man I first met him as a member of the National Society for Art & Design Education. He and his late wife Maggie were both long serving members. Mike served on the Executive Board and had served as President. His experience of Art &.Design Education was pivotal to the many discussions we had concerning the state of the arts during the period of sweeping government changes which impacted the parity of the creative arts. I spoke to Mike shortly after the tragic death of Maggie. He reflected on the circumstance of her death, his grief was similar in circumstances to the sad demise of my late wife insofar as the cause of death. It was cathartic to have our conversations of death and the restructuring of life’s journey. Mike continued painting and holding workshops and hosting guests in his home and studio in Portaferry. We spoke periodically following the onset of the Covid pandemic He was at times unsure of the validity of his work and clearly felt the loss of Maggie during the uncertainty and insecurity of this period in his own health . He is sadly missed - may his journey bring him eternal peace. Dr Trevor Colluney (( friend )

Trevor Colluney

Marbeth and I were so sorry to learn of Michael's death but he confided in me during our most recent conversation that his time here was short. We will have many happy memories of his time as organist in Ballywalter and I came to know him as a good friend as we shared many interests together. Michael was a man of wide and exceptional abilities with a warm sense of humour and never afraid to convey his opinions. His life is a history of impressive projects completed to the highest standard. He will remain a cherished memory for his friends and his talents will live on with his sculpture and paintings. He was determined to practise his art as long as he was able. Above all I will remember Michael as a man of firm personal faith so often expressed through his music and contribution to worship. I am confident that he faced his final days with the resurrection hope that we share in Christ. With my sincere condolences and thankfulness for the times Michael and I shared together. Rev Dr R Alan Russell, Minister Emeritus of Ballywalter Presbyterian Church. 5 Cameron Park, Ballymena, BT42 1QJ arussellpci@gmail.com 07815301781

Alan Russell