Dear Michael’s Family,
I am deeply saddened by this loss and would like to express my sincere condolences to your family.
I had the privilege of knowing Michael for nearly three years. Although we met through TikTok and never had the chance to meet in person, we became very good friends. Over time he became the heart and soul of our community and team. Everyone respected and valued him deeply.
For almost three years we spoke every single day. There was hardly a day when we didn’t exchange messages. On the morning of February 17, he wrote that he had woken up and was feeling a little better. After that message, he stopped responding, and I immediately felt that something was wrong.
Michael was someone with whom it was always easy and meaningful to talk. He shared stories about his life, his family, his work, and the dreams and plans he was building for the future. He loved sharing the small beautiful moments of life — especially sunsets, and even photos from his nighttime shark tooth hunting. Those moments showed how much he appreciated the world around him.
He was a calm, kind, and genuinely warm person. A bright and wonderful friend whose presence meant a lot to many of us. I will truly miss him.
Please know that my thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with your family during this difficult time. I wish you strength, comfort, and support as you go through this profound loss.
I would also like to express my gratitude to Michael’s daughter for staying in contact with me during this time. I understand how difficult this must have been for her, and yet she still found the strength to communicate with me. I am very thankful for that.
With deepest sympathy and respect,
Alinoiiz, Alina