Michael G. Walsh
December 31, 1969 - December 31, 1969

"May God bless the Walsh family. I have nothing but positive memories of Mike over the years. He was a true champion of the classroom teacher in Carmel-Clay Schools and was someone who loved and valued the teaching profession. Mike officiated many, many games that I coached, and it was always an enjoyable experience for all of us. His family is in my prayers."

"My heart was deeply saddened when I learned of Mike's passing. Mike displayed such courage with his fight against his illness. I had the joy of working with Mike at Carmel Middle School. His classroom was always a buzz of activity and learning. He had a quick wit and an easy smile for the students and his colleagues. My thoughts and prayers are with Diane and his sons. Sally Pickering"

"I have many fond memories of Coach Walsh. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing. As one of his previous students and basketball players, he made a big difference in my life. I still apply today the things he taught in the classroom and on the court. I am better person today for knowing Coach Walsh. My prayers are with Daine, Christopher, Patrick and Tommy. "

"I have so many wonderful memories of Mike as we officiated both football nd basketball together for many years. Although politically we were at opposite ends, I always looked forward to our Friday night discussions. Mike will always be a part of our crew and we will miss him."

"My older brother Micheal was the best and only brother I had. I will miss him so much .He was the last of my family to pass I will miss his smile his stories of sports ,his visits to the beach house in Hull the wonderful conversations around the annual lobster dinners I so enjoyed making .I will just miss knowing I had my big brother. thank you all for letting me know how much he was loved. and god watch over Diane and the kids.THANK YOU John Walsh"

"May the Lord comfort you and your boys during this time in your lives. Thinking of and praying for you."

"The memories I have of Mike I will always hold close to my heart: being his teammate and coworker for several years, eating lunch with him and his girls every day at school, all 6th grade female teachers getting a rose from him every Valentine's Day,listening to all his stories and the many trivial bits of information he was so intrigued by and shared with anyone who would listen, Michegaus... I will always admire his upbeat personality and attitude towards life. My prayers are with the Walsh family."

"My prayers and thoughts are with the Mike Walsh family. I have so many great memories of Mike and his visits to HSE. As a football, basketball, and baseball official he was among the best. While officiating, Mike always thought he made all the right calls. Even though I didn't always agree with all his calls on the diamond, he was so professional about it -- how could I argue. Mike's loss will be felt by many, especially the coaches and athletes he served so unselfishly as an IHSAA official."

"I have so many fond memories of Mike during the 20+ years that I have known him. I remember Mike as a devoted leader, mentor, teacher, colleague, father, husband and friend. At our baseball meetings each week, Mike would always have a play situation to tell everyone. After a while, it became a tradition that all of us looked forward to in hearing. I'll miss Mike and that play situation. Mike will be truly missed but never forgotten and he will always be a part of our organization.My prayers are with Diane, Christopher, Patrick and Tommy. May God bless the Walsh family."

"I am so sad to hear that Mike lost his battle with cancer. He loved life and persevered to the end. He is someone I will never forget. Mike and I came to Carmel Jr. High in 1978. I have so many funny memories of him. The thing I remember most is his smile and he smiled all the time. The last few years I taught at CJHS(Carmel Middle School just doesn't sound right) , Mike was my next door neighbor. He was so generous and kind, always ready to lend a hand, loan me some science equipment and then tell me a story-- a long story! Diane, I have been praying for all of you and I will continue to pray for you and Christopher, Patrick and Tommy. Mike had emailed me last spring when I got in touch with him after hearing of his illness. He was determined to beat the cancer and asked me to pray for him. Now, he is telling God some of his stories! Bless his heart! "

"Mike was a wonderful man and teacher who touched many lives. He will missed. I enjoyed working with him both at Carmel and Creekside Middle. He had a warm smile and a heart of gold. My thoughts and prayers are with you all."

"My memories of Mike lift my spirits during this difficult time. During my teaching career, Mike and I had fun swapping sports stories, jokes and nicknames. He inspired me through his creativity and passion for teaching. Mike will always hold a special place in my heart. My prayers are with his family and also his friends."

"Diane, We were so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. We will continue to keep you all in our prayers over the coming months. John, had even taken the prayers for Michael to his preschool where he , the teacher and eight other 5 yr. olds prayed for Michael since the start of school. God will keep you and Christopher, Patrick and Tommy in his care, and lift you up in your grief. my deepest thoughts and prayers are with you. Janet"

"Diane, We were so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. We will continue to keep you all in our prayers over the coming months. John, had even taken the prayers for Michael to his preschool where he , the teacher and eight other 5 yr. olds prayed for Michael since the start of school. God will keep you and Christopher, Patrick and Tommy in his care, and lift you up in your grief. my deepest thoughts and prayers are with you. Janet"

"My heartfelt sympathies are extended to the family of Michael Walsh. I met Mike through our affiliation with Indianapolis Umpires Association and I knew him for only a few months. But during that short time we became friends and I respected him as an umpire and mentor. Mike and I also formed a special bond because years ago I had the same disease that afflicted him. We frequently talked about our common experience. Mike"

"Mike was such a wonderful friend and a mover and shaker for outstanding school quality. I will miss his passion for teaching and compassion for his follow teachers.My sons were so very lucky to have had Mike as a teacher and an inspiration for a the curiousity of how the world of science works. We will think of Mike often and send our blessings to his family. Mary Kay Bonner, Creekside MS"

"I am saddened to hear of Mike's passing. We taught and coached together at CJHS from 1978 to 1981. He always made me laugh! Kent Thompson"

"Mr. Walsh was my sixth-grade science teacher. But not only was he a great teacher and coach, but a wonderful person as a whole. My condolences go out to the Walsh family, and may God bless them during their time of need."

"My thoughts and prayers, and those of Tekes everywhere, are with the Walsh family. Michael will be greatly missed. He leaves behind a great legacy in the thousands of lives in which he made a positive impact throughout the years, and in the example he set for his sons, family, and friends."

"I feel honored that the Lord brought Mike, Deanna, and I together for my first year of teaching. During that year, Mike helped me through some struggles, the way a father would offer wisdom to a child. I truly felt that he was always looking out for me. Amazingly, I think he made many of us feel that way! I will always remember his happy spirit and easy-going perspective. He loved teaching, loved sports, loved life, but mostly loved people. Diane, may the memories and love we all share for Mike bring you comfort during this season. God bless you and your family. "

"Diane, Christopher, Parick, and Tommy you are in our prayers. We love you, and your whole family. You are so special to us. God bless, Jim and Carole"

"My wife Sue and I are very saddened to hear of Mike's passing. As a fellow teacher and IUA official for the past 16 years, I considered him not only a close friend but also a mentor. I will always reflect fondly on the many conversations about sports and education we had while traveling together to officiate. Mike, you will be greatly missed. May God bless Diane and the entire Walsh family."

"Diane, Christopher, Patrick, and Tom,We are so very sorry for your loss. You guys were the first to warmly welcome us to the neighborhood, and remained the best of friends to all of us. Mike was a good man. He made a difference in many lives with his dedication to young minds and sports. He will be missed by all, and is probably now officiating games for the Lord. God bless you all, and our prayers continue to be with you."

"Mike was a great offiical, a great teacher, a geat coach, a great dad, and a great friend. What else is there to say? He will be missed by many, many people."

"If I could share one memory of Mike it would be the many times he would call to assign a game and he would add, almost as a post script, "Tommy will be there." As a father of three sons as well, I knew that Mike was saying with pride, "That's my boy!" Mike was all about his love for the Lord and his love for his family and because those things were right, he could and did positively impact lives wherever he went in life.We will miss him, cherish his memory and do all we can to minister to his family."

"We share in the sadness of losing a loved one like Mike. His love for his family, students, and athletes he coached was evident in every conversation I had with him. His releationship with Jesus Christ was a very special one and showed through his life with everyone he touched. Our prayers are with you, Diane and boys. God Bless You!"

"Mike was a very special person who had great passion for everything he did. He put his heart and soul into his teaching, coaching, officiating, his family, and all people he knew. I taught and coached with Mike from 1977-81 at Carmel Jr. High and my son had him as a teacher several years later. May we all reach for more in the spirit for life he exemplified."

"I have fond memories of Mr. Walsh. I had him for homeroom & science at Carmel Jr. High (many years ago) and I have great memories of him as a teacher. He was a great man and a wonderful educator. My prayers are with your family during this difficult time."

"To the Walsh Family;Your dad and husband was a wonderful man who touched the lives of many, many students through teaching, coaching, and refereeing. He leaves a legacy that will continue long after his death. I will always remember with fondness my years of teaching with him before I moved to the high school (1978 - 1995). I will especially remember his undying support of the Red Sox and the Patriots. Thank God he got to see both of them finally become successful and win the Super Bowl and the World Series. I am truly sorry for your loss (and ours as well)."

"Mike was one of the first staff members I met at CJHS. Working with him professionally was always exciting, interesting and fun. He inspired students to look at all things in the world with appreciation. I also had the privilege to cross his path in the sports scene, where he always had an encouraging word for the the youngsters on the courts where he officiated, including my daughter. I am glad to have met and known Mike and send my prayers and thoughts to his family as they journey through these new days ahead."

"Mike is my "Brother in Blue", my friend, and a mentor. I miss him terribly and I shall for a long time. My deepest and most heart felt condolences to Diane and his family. I treasure the hours that I spent with him on the baseball diamond, basketball court and football field. Mostly I treasure the time we spent talking about our families, the world and our place in it. May the good lord watch over Diane, Christopher, Patrick and Tommy."

""

"Mr. Walsh was a teacher of mine in the sixth grade. His enthusiasm for his profession was evident. I had a chance to see Mike again when I was coaching football and basketball at Noblesville Middle School. He was always cordial and professional He will be missed. My heart goes out to his family at this time."

"The Walsh Family,I met Mike this baseball(umpire) season, even though we knew each other a relative short period of time, it was apparent that truth and grace found the way into his heart. My sincere condolences to all."

"I wish to pass along my condolences to Diane and the boys. I am deeply saddened by your loss. I had the unique pleasure of working on the same crew with Mike at the Division III Baseball National Championship. The experience I had was more than just about baseball and it will be something that I will remember for the rest of my life. "

"Diane and family,It is a privilege to read through this guest book and see how many lives Mike touched. Your loss is shared by many family and friends, particularly your church family. It is such a blessing to see that so many knew Mike loved Jesus by the way he lived his life. May his life be an example to us all. We are praying that our heavenly Father will comfort you with His peace during this difficult time. "

"Diane - I had the pleasure of teaching next door to Mike at CMS. We shared many good times talking about growing up in New England and the trials of being Red Sox fans. The teaching profession will miss Mike. Diane, know that all your former students and parents in Lebanon are holding your family in our prayers."

"I was so very saddened to hear of Mike's battle with cancer. I remember Mike officiating my basketball games in gradeschool. He was kind, patient and took the time to explain things as we all learned the game. The parents always loved him! I then had the privilege of having him as an AAU coach for several years in junior high where he had a profound impact on my life. He was passionate about the game, treated me with respect, and instilled confidence in me. How happy I was to move into my new home and realize Coach Walsh was my neighbor! My first thought was, "Man, this guy is ageless!" He looked the exact same as I remembered him from 15 years earlier! I always enjoyed the recaps of his daily adventures as we stood by the mailbox and chatted. Diane, your loss and pain must be incredible. I pray that you are surrounded and comforted by all those who loved Mike. His sons will live in his legacy for many years to come. Know that we will lift your family up in our daily prayers.Fondly,Sara Phillips and Family"

"I grew up with Michael in the Town of Hull Massachusetts; we graduated together from Hull High School in 1971. I am very sorry to hear of Michael passing at 52 years, his passing leaves a big hole in the life of so many people. Word has traveled back to us and we are all very sorry to lose Michael. He is remembered as an important part of our lives as we grew up on the East Coast, hard by the side of the Atlantic Ocean. Winters in the little of tow of Hull, where the Ocean would drive it"

"I'm not sure what to say- I was blessed to have "Mr. Walsh" as my teacher and coach years ago. As one of my very first basketball coaches, he left an impression on my life as one who was caring, committed, honest and motivated to help us succeed. He was one of the many who inspired me to teach and coach as well. I am praising God that He was a believer in Jesus, as I know that he is rejoicing in heaven right now. It's bittersweet. I only regret not thanking him for his generosity and example...so, thank you, to his family for 'sharing' him with the rest of us. May the "God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles (2 Corinth. 1:3) comfort you with His ever-present "peace that transcends all understanding" (Philippians 4:7). Much love to you~"

"I will always remember Mike for his thoughtfullness and his willingness to help others. I worked several times with Mike on the baseball diamond, and he was always the consumate professional. I know he was well liked by the coaches and players, and as an umpire, my goal was to be half as good as he was. As good as Mike was on the field of play, he excelled in his relationships with people. I will always treasure the times we spent together. My prayers are with Diane and the family."

"We are very sad that Mr. Walsh passed away. He will be remembered as one of our favorite teachers. He made learning especially fun through michegas. This became an activity that our family looked forward to each week. We are very sorry. "

"We wish to extend our deepest sympathies from our baseball team here at Rose-Hulman. We sincerely appreciate the relationship we had with Mike over the last 18 years we've been here at Rose. Umpiring is a thankless job, but Mike always gave us a great effort and was always upbeat and excited to be here. We will truly miss him and wish to extend our condolences to his family. He will be missed but not forgotten.Sincerely,Jeff Jenkins& the Rose-Hulman Baseball Team"

"Walsh Family:Mike's spirit will always live on in each of us who were privileged to umpire, work, or be around him. I umpired colegiate softball with Mike in the 80's. He put you at ease when you were umpiring together. There wasn't a situation that he couldn't handle on the field. As a fellow umpire, friend and Dad, I wish more people knew Mike and modeled their lives after his. In closing "What a man, umpire, husband, teacher, and friend." My family will keep the Walsh's in our prayers."

"Mr. Walsh was my favorite teacher when I had him three years ago in Sixth Grade. He always made class fun and interesting. I remember that if you asked him a certain question, he would go on for a whole class period answering your question. I had many great times with him and my class, playing Michegaus and having the jug emptying contest. I'll remember my time with Mr. Walsh forever."

"Mike, or "Mr. Walsh" was an outstanding man & professional. He touched the lives of 2 generations of Ardaiolo's... he refereed & umpired my sporting events many, many years ago. He even remembered me several years later when he taught my children Nicole & Eric in middle shcool. Mike always had a smile & kind words of wisdom for each of us and all of you (I'm sure). He will be missed by many former, current and future middle school students, student atheltes and co-workers. God Bless!"

"I have had numerous memories of Mr. Walsh. As far back as 1st grade, he was always coaching, referee, umpiring every weekend for Westfield Youth Sports. The thing I will remember most about Mr. Walsh was during my Middle School and Highschool football days he was always helping me out on the field. Always giving me encouragement and when I made mistakes he would always be there to tell me to keep my head up. I really admired him for this, after all he coached me when I was younger but he would always make sure to look out for me even during my highschool games. He was a loyal coach, teacher, and father. I will never forget how he impacted my life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, Tommy, Pat, Chris and Mrs. Walsh. "

"Mr. Walsh was such a good teacher. I will always remember him as a generous, loving, and caring man. I will keep the memories close at heart. Everyone will miss such a big part of Creekside. My prayers are to the Walsh family. I will always remember the bright smile on his face each and every morning. To the Walsh family, God bless you all."

"I met Mike while umpiring division III baseball. Mike was a man who young people could look up to as he carried himself with such grace and dignity. I am grateful for having known Mike. God Bless the Walsh Family."

"Mike will be greatly missed by the entire IUA, I don't think one umpire in our group can say Mike didn't have an impact on them. He was a leader on and off the diamond, someone we could go to for help with a rule, situation, or just life in general. My fondest memory...Mike and I were to work a game at Perry Jr. High on a Monday, but got rained out in the 1st inning. It was too early to head to the meeting, so he came to my apartment. Our cable was out, but somehow, Mike fixed it. I'm not even sure Mike knew this, but from that point on he was referred to as "Cable Guy" by my wife. Classic Mike!!"

"We are so sorry for your loss. May God be with you and your loved ones during this difficult time. The Endicotts"

"As a member of our IUA family for thirty years Mike was without a doubt the reason for our success in dealing with baseball and with the many needs that our members would have with their families.It is so hard for me to imagine a season without Mike so he will always be remembered as we hand out our "most dedicated " award each year with always a thought about #4.Mike's family has expressed to me many times of the value of our group to their family but with me I always felt it was his value to us that was our inspiration.Prayers and thoughts always to Diane and the boys."

"Mr. Walsh was my 6th grade teacher 2 years ago. I will always remember his ways of teaching and caring. I especially loved the Mishigous game we would play. He always had the most fun and creative ways of teaching. Anyday of the week, he had a big, bright smile and heart that made school so much better. Mr. Walsh will be missed by all students and teachers from Creekside. My sympathy is with the Walsh family. Thank you Mr. Walsh for everything you have ment to me. "

"Like many, our social life primarily revolves around our children"

"I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Mike...You and your family will be in our prayers."

"My greatest sympathy! Mike was a tremendous mentor and a good friend. I learned a lot from Mike in the classroon, on the baseball field, and about working with people. He will be greatly missed! Eric"

"When my son was in 6th grade at Carmel Jr. - he had Mr. Walsh. Steven was the head of his "debate" team and they beat everyone, so Mr. Walsh took them to a movie and out to get a pizza. It was wonderful for him to do that, but also, he was wonderful because my son was having trouble adjusting to the junior high and Mr. Walsh took him under his wing and helped him emotionally. Steven is now a sophomore at CHS and is very moved by Mr. Walsh's passing. We will never forget him."

"When I was first hired in Carmel as an instructional assistant, Mike's class was one of my favorites. He had a passion and enthusiasm that was contagious! I will never forget that. That same year when I was hired as a teacher and no longer was in Mike's room every day, he still continued to be a support and encouragement to me. I feel blessed to have known Mike Walsh. My thoughts and prayers are with the Walsh family. "

"We are here just a moment and then we are recieved into heaven for eternity. It is Mike and his family's faith that will reunite them very soon. Mike has always been the consumate professional on the field as well as a true, real person off of the field. I will always treasure the memories that Mike has endowed me with. Thank you for sharing your time with me, Mike. God bless Diane and his family. Keep standing on the promise!"

"May god bless Mike and his family. This is a difficult time that requires the family to pull together and keep each other strong. Mike was a sound moral man who felt for people. The earth needs more people like Mike.God Bless Mike and God bless his family "

"My son Tony Jr. and I are depply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. Mike was a good friend to me and a better one to Jr. A little long winded on Monday nights, Mike always had some advice or words of encouragement for his fellow officials. When most of us would have slowed down after becoming ill, he displayed amazing strength and character by staying active in officiating. Thanks Mike for teaching us to never give up, thanks for being there for my son and thank you Diane for allowing us to enjoy his company on and off the field, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."

"What can I say about Mike that has not already been said over and over? I met him in the fall of 2004 when I was hired at Creekside, and, having never met him prior, he immediately made me feel like one of the family in that building. That next school year we were hallmates in the 6th grade wing and he humored me that fall by listening to my stories of Philies Baseball Misery, even though he had so much to celebrate with his BoSox's run the year before. Mike's love for his profession(s), genuine approach to his colleagues, and enthusiasm for life made him such a wonderful person to be around. My sincere condolences go out to Diane and the boys. You've heard it said many times, I'm sure, but know that Mike will be missed by countless numbers of friends, former students, and past/present colleagues who were fortunate enough to be touched in some way by his wonderful spirit."

"As our family sat and talked about our memories of Mr. Walsh, it became obvious haw varied and fod they were. Mr. Walsh taught our daughter, Stepphanie, as a 6th grader four years ago. She recalls Michegaus, getting Mr. Walsh off subject for entire classes, and interesting class discussions. But most of all she remembers winning some drawing and going to the movies with Mr. and Mrs. Walsh over the Christmas holidays...and being the only 6th grade girl that showed up! Our son, Emerson, who played basketball with Carmel Dad's Club, would always look to see if his sister's teacher was going to officiate his game. Now that was cool! As a mom, I mostly remember one very intriquing conversation with Mike Walsh on the bus ride to the Turkey Run State Park field trip. He could talk about anything. It was obvious to all of us that he was dedicated to improving the lives of children in the classroom, on the court, and in ways they would carry with them throughout life. Thank you, Mike Walsh, from the Hackett family! You'll be with us always!"

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the Walsh family. We will all miss Mike and his "larger than life" smile. The optimism he maintained during his courageous battle was unbelievable. Mike was an awesome mentor to me and many other aspiring umpires. I feel blessed for knowing Mike, and I offer my sincere condolences and my faithful prayers to his family."

"Mike officiated many football and basketball games that I coached at Clay Middle School. I will always remember his sense of humor and the encouraging words that he gave to the athletes. My thoughts and prayers are with the Walsh family."

"Mike was not only a fellow umpire and leader of the IUA, he was also a close friend. When we had just moved to the area I met Mike. He was my basketball officiating partner at Westfield Middle School. He introduced me to the IUA and just this year worked with my son to help him join IUA as well. Mike was always a positive guy with a heart as big as his smile. He was also a Christian so we knoiw he is now in a better place. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. May God Blees them during this trying time."

"Michael's life touched so many. He will always live in the memories of those who knew and loved him. God bless him and bring him into eternal peace. And the Lord share His comfort with his family and friends, help them to see that a life well lived in His service is the goal for us all."

"Diane & Boys Over many years I have known Mike and watched as he officiated many Dad's Club games as my oldest son and Daughters played. Mike always left a good impression whether it was for the players, coaches or parents. He was fair and impartial in every instance. It has been a pleasure to know him and I have pride to say that he was someone who always represented himself well. Diane I have known you since you were 4 or 5 years old and I know you have that strong faith in God that will help you through this time of sorrow. Mike will always be at your side in spirit and in memories all the days of your life. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers as you continue your journey."

"I never had Mr. Walsh as a teacher, but his positive attitude was contagious, even after seeing him just a few minutes in the hallway. A couple years ago, I went back to Carmel Middle School as a teacher, and he actually remembered my name. I couldn't believe it . He's worked with hundreds of kids. I wasn't even in his class, and he remembered me. I think that shows what a caring person he was. He will be missed."

"To the Walsh family,Having spent 20+ years coaching baseball many of my games have been officiated by Mike. Mike had a Marion County semi-final game with my team in 1985. The game went 13 innings and as recently as July Mike and I relived some of those fond memories. While our area umpires are by-and-large the best in the country, Mike was as good as they come. He loved the kids, was always hustling, and handled the game as professionally as any umpire I have ever known. I will miss seeing him at the ballpark. In May of this year I lost my son Daniel to brain cancer. Mike always took time to ask about him as he had umpired many games which Daniel caught. So believe me, I understand fully what your family is experiencing, and I send my deepest condolences. As time passes it will be easier to dwell on all the happy experiences with Mike. Be proud of all that Mike Walsh stood for...he was a terrific human being."

"Mr. Walsh was one of my favorite teachers and sometimes I only came to school because I knew I had his class to look forward to. He understood that as sixth graders we wanted to be treated like adults, but still needed to be babied occasionally. I don't think I can name a single person who didn't like him. Even three years later, I still have vivid memories of his class, both science and my short time in his English class. God bless him and his family. My prayers are with his whole family at this time."

"To all of Coach Walsh's family, please accept our deepest synpathy. Coach Walsh was a wonderful coach, teacher, mentor and most importantly, human being. He was always patient and kind with students and their parents. He will be greatly missed. "

"Mike: I remember good times on Nantasket Beach hanging on Anastos' corner. Thank you for being my friend during our youth. My prayers go out to your family.Love an old friend,Donna Ardizzoni"

"Carmel Junior High was a very close family, and Mike was a big part of that. We all loved and cared for one another and still do. Diane, you and the boys are in my thoughts. He was a great guy! His smile, jokes, stories, and influence witll be with us forever.."

"Diane, Patrick, Tommy and Christopher,I am so sorry to hear about your loss. God has one awesome angel in heaven. Mike was such a great person, he never had anything less than a smile on his face. The kids loved him, I remember him running up and down the court officiating for the WYS games. He was so fair and was always looking out for what was best. He loved you boys so much, you could see how he beemed whenever he would watch you. I remember when I would walk out of my house, he was running off to some game with his black and white referee jersey, and he would always smile and wave and say hello. Diane I am so sorry for your loss, I pray that God protects you and covers you with a peace while you are working through your loss.God Bless! "

"John--So sorry to hear about Mike's illness and death. Although I had only seen Mike a few times over the past 30 years, I can see by the notes from everyone in Indiana that he hadn't changed. Still the same great guy that he was in Hull! The notes on the questbook are a wonderful tribute to him. My condolences to his wife and children."

"When my daughter was hired in the Carmel school system after graduating from Huntington College she was an instructional assistant in Mike's classroom. She loved being in his class. She always said what a great teacher he was. After she was hired and no longer in his classroom everyday he continued to support her and mentor her. She is now a great Carmel middle school teacher and I know alot of it comes from what she saw in your husband/dad. Anyway he was even a positive influence to even us as parents. Deb Accorsi"

"Diane - I saw you out running in the neighborhood this morning and I prayed for you that God's bright sun and Son would warm and comfort you. I think you would tell me to let my husband know how much I love him and appreciate each day God gives us together - so I will be grateful and remember to love my family each and every day. I wish I could have been in a Mom's In Touch group with you at some time so I could have learned to know you better, but I know we share the same love of God, family and our schools. I pray you eat well, grieve well, and get some rest. I'm sorry I was not able to attend Mike's memorial service with my husband, Ed and some Westfield Administrators. Ed said it was beautiful and very moving. We will continue to pray for you and your family. Keep on running!!!"

"Mr. Walsh was one of the best teachers I've ever had. I loved all his stories. He taught me a lot about many random things that I will always remember. He went too early..."