Capt. Michael A. Lemieux, USN Ret.
September 13, 1954 - October 23, 2010

"It has been many years, but every now and then a thought would creep into my mind that I would look you up and we would somehow meet again to share the â??good â??ole timesâ?A. My internet search today has found you but it appears I am too late so I must be content with the many memories. Mike and I first meet in Dr. Steinâ??s general chemistry class back in the fall of 1972 and sized each other up. Mikeâ??s solid nature and flaming red beard were not easily missed. Over the next four years we attend numerous classes together at Western State College because we were both chemistry majors. Mike and I were roommates in the dorm during our freshman year and then spent our sophomore year as roommates in an off-campus apartment. I had been a mad chemist from an early age and did not think there would be anyone to challenge me. That of course was not the case. Mike and I challenged each other mercilessly at times while growing a strong friendship over the next four years. Our ongoing competition kept either Mike or I generally with the top test scores in our chemistry classes. We were both TAs and Mike was always willing to help other classmates with their studies. We also had a less studious side to our love for chemistry. I remember studying thermite reactions high temperature metal exchanges. We decided to set one off in our first floor dorm hall. The resulting cloud of smoke filled the entire hall of the first floor and then slowly moved up into the second and third stories. About 20 minutes after we had carefully cleaned up all the evidence, a quite knock on the door found us facing a stern looking floor supervisor. He looked at the both of us and said â??You are the only two chemistry majors on the floor. Donâ??t do it again!â?A. There were a number of â??incidentsâ?A over the years mostly to do with explosive compounds. You were a blessing in my life and I will never forget you and the great times we had during those formative years in college."

"I met Mike the first time when I went up to the door of his tiny little house in the woods at Penn State and knocked on the door in order to ask him if he would be interested in joining my newly commissioned friend and I in sharing a house in Newport when we all departed for school there. Us for SWOS and Mike for Department Head School. It was a small house and I had to squeeze in past the various instruments and high end sound equipment he'd bought while on Worden and Reeves. He joined our scheme and we house hunted Newport until we found a home with a piano. That got his vote. I met him again years later in San Diego when he was XO. Mike's name came up yesterday in a talk with my parents about friends from the past. He was a great friend."

"Im sorry to hear about the passing of Michael Lemiex I served with him on board the USS ELLIOT DD967 in 1985 he was the operations officer then those that served with him will always have the memories Take care and God Bless"

"I was a young JO under Mike when he was just a LCDR. We were both on ELLIOT. He is someone I will never forget and will always carry with me. He was a good friend, mentor, and leader and gave our young JO locker just enough rope to have fun, but not get thrown in the brig. Mike, I miss you sir and thank you for crossing my life's path and making it for the better. VR, "Kato" Storey"

"How lucky I am to have known someone like Mike. I can never thank you enough for all you did for me and the impact you had on my life. It meant the world to me to have you around for as long as I did. I will cherish each and every one of the memories you left me with and will never, ever forget them. So goodbye for now. Hopefully somewhere, some way we will meet again and it will be just like old times, a bottle of scotch, cigar, laughing, joking and smiling a walk with IZZi MAC and Logi. As I continue my life, I can only hope that I can be half as a good a man as you were . Thanks for everything. I’ll miss you more than you could ever imagine and will never forget you. Until we meet again, rest in peace my friend. SEMPER FI Bruce Youngbluth Major USMC ret"

"Mike Lemieux embodied the best characteristics a man can have. He was intelligent, kind and giving. He loved learning and teaching, and thousands of Naval officers benefited from his love of chemistry, his devotion to his country, and his dedication to the men and women with whom he served. Although I did not know Mike when he was in the Navy, I loved to hear his stories, especially from his days in Chosin and O'Brien. Mike's friendship and support were unparalleled in my life. We shared music and travel, friends and family, and a love for helping young people develop their potential. I will treasure my memories of Mike and hope to live up to his faith in me."

"I met the Captain in 2002 when I joined the NAPS teaching faculty, retiring in 2005. Since that time, he became an art patron, a superior, and a friend. I always thought he himself would make a superb painter of pictures since he had excellent taste in the fine arts -- his living space was an example of that. He would always downplay his own finely tuned artistic powers to encourage others. I will always be grateful to him for his patronage, friendship, and the model of integrity and courage he was to each of us."

"I have known Mike for years and was awfully glad to learn that he was a member of the NAPS faculty when I took command in July, 2007. I knew him to be an officer of unquestioned integrity, superb professionalism, and unbridled passion. He was all that, and more, as Chairman of the Chemistry Department; and one of the best, if not the best, instructor on the staff. He loved life, and loved his life - with all of his personal passions. His cooking, his scotch, his dogs, his decorating...he was truly a renaissance man. But most of all, he loved teaching and helping his students achieve their very best. He was tough, but was admired for his rigor; but most of all he wanted his students to succeed, and they did because of his teaching and assistance. He will be missed greatly, but when we pause to remember Mike we will remember his smile, and his passion for his students. Sail safe, shipmate. God Bless you!"

"Mike always responded when you asked how he was with 'doing great'. I think that captured much of his spirit. It was clear to the very end that Mike had no quit in him. For those that knew him it was also clear that he was more concerned about those around him then for himself. He wanted the best he could give to make those around him successful. Mike had a huge heart, one that never quit, a heart that really wanted to do the right thing, do it in a way that would make other peoples' lives better. It is one thing to excel when you are under full steam and he certainly did that, the real nature of a man is revealed when it doesn’t go your way and Mike demonstrated his nature, he never quit, and for those around him it made all the difference, we are better for it, I am better for it, and I am proud to say Mike was my big brother."

"With sincere sympathy to my uncle and all my cousins!"

"I had the great pleasure and honor of working for CAPT Lemieux at the USNA during his last tour. I send my condolences and deepest respect to his family and close friens. Kathy Lewis"

"I remember times when I was younger and would be with my father up here and he and I would go to Captain Lemieux's house for dinner every once in awhile and it was very nice. You had a great sense of humor and were a very kind, knowledgeable man and you will be greatly missed. God bless you Captain. Fair winds and following seas."

"Mike Lemieux was my mentor and friend. He intervened to give my career a kick start and my life was never really the same. He was an engineer with a keenly analytical mind, yet had a huge heart and thought of everyone but himself. I remember distinctly being instructed upon the proper making of risotto, during which it is critical to sear the rice prior to adding water, lest the dish not have the correct perfectly fluffy texture upon completion. His dedication to the Navy did not end when he retired, and in fact the only regret Mike had about getting sick was not being able to teach in the last few months of his life. Mike Lemieux leaves behind several generations of naval officers this one included whom he inspired to think big and not be constrained by conventional wisdom. I miss him a lot."

"We will all miss Mike"

"Mike was a wonderful person and cared so much about others."

"What I will remember most about Mike is his passion. He was passionate about all he did – his impeccable taste in fashion and home décor, his determination to do what he thought was in the best interests of others both professionally and socially, his love of art, music, superb cuisine and quality Scotch, but especially his love of teaching and his zest for life. He will be missed for sure, but always remembered with warmth and a smile. Sandra Quinn colleague at NAPS and husband Joe"

"Captain Mike LeMieux was a good shipmate. Fair winds and following seas Mike."

"A great CO, he will be missed."

"I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life, To the gull's way and the whale's way where the wind's like a whetted knife; And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover, And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over. Sea Fever by John Masefield 3rd verse This verse made me think of you We will miss you cousin Michael."

"I am so sorry to hear that Michael has left us. We mostly saw Mike and his family when he was younger and we always enjoyed the visits. He was a natural teacher: he taught Peter, my youngest son, to eat with a fork when he was one. My prayers continue to be with him and his family."

"Mike was a great fellow-Prof at USNA but my fondest memories are of our kayaking trips together. He would get me to come to his house while it was still dark out, make fun of me for transporting my boat by shoving it through the hatchback to the dashboard of my car, and then take me on some crazy excursion. He thought he was a great kayaker until the day his rudder didn't work...he swerved around like a drunken sailor and ever after appreciated my ability to control my rudderless boat. We talked about many things during our trips and he was full of great advice, dealt out much encouragement, and told many funny stories. Since he moved to RI, I haven't found anyone else that is as much fun to kayak with. I hope Mike knew how much he meant to me and I am glad he is finally pain-free. I imagine that he is in heaven trying to find some other idiot to kayak with him to crazy places way too early in the day...and that he is hoping that the boats up there have unbreakable rudders!"

"Mike was the friend, and neighbor who always had a smile and a friendly word for all he met. He was a happy dog walker, and a lover of good scotch,a special cigar, fine art, and beautiful music. He is, and will be missed. Carole Kenny & Frank Leith Overlook POint"

"My prayers and thoughts go out to the imediate and extended family. He was a fine specimen of a man."

"Our sympathy and prayers go out to the Lemieux family. Michael was a fixture here at Overlook Point walking his dogs while enjoying his cigar always with a smile and wave to everyone that passed by. Things will not be same without him. God bless you Michael."

"Mike imbued both gentleness and a tremendous strength of character; he was a profoundly talented and giving man and willingly shared his myriad of talents with all. He was always thinking of others and how he could make us feel better. Mike sent us a Christmas card that is so typical of his unselfishness. In the middle of his very difficult medical situation so as not to make us worry he said: “Don’t worry about me, I am fine, the furnace is working, the pups are sleeping and the fridge is full.” In ending please allow me to share with you a part of the last verse of the United States Marine Corps Hymn: If the Army and the Navy Ever look on Heaven's scenes; They will find the streets are guarded By United States Marines. I submit to you my friends that today those proud Marines have been joined by a very gallant Navy Captain: our dear friend Mike Lemieux…God bless you mi amigo."

"We know there are no perfect words for times like this, please know we are still praying for you; may you take comfort in wonderful memories and knowing he touched so many lives."

"Mike was a roll model to all officers who served under him. He will be sorely missed."

"Capt Lemieux was an inspiration to all of the midshipman whose lives he touched. He always gave so much of himself to help those mids in need. He truly was a role model for the officers that served under him and I know I was a better officer for having known him. I will always remember the 4th of July barbecues he used to have at his house. He always made time for the kids that attended those events, and I know my kids enjoyed them. He will be missed."

"Mike was a true leader and friend. I have known him since OBRIEN and to know him was an honor. He will be missed."

"I remember many times standing in Captain's Mast with one of my Sailors and getting to see a master at work! Captain Lemieux would take them down to parade rest and then disassemble their behavior piece by piece. Then he would build them back up and tell them how they could be the Sailor of the Quarter if not Sailor of the Year if they would just apply themselves and live up to their potential. I haven't met anyone who could match him since! Fair winds, Captain! ---------- "Almighty God, you love everything you have made and judge us with infinite mercy and justice. We rejoice in your promises of pardon, joy and peace to all those who love you. In your mercy turn the darkness of death into the dawn of new life, and the sorrow of parting into the joy of heaven.""

"Mike was a true neighbor. Although I am a newcomer to the area, and was just geting to know Mike, I was the beneficiary of his kindness from the start. I wish I'd had the chance to know him better, especially since we had something important in common besides being neighbors. In 1977, my late father, William F. Nolan, retired as the academic dean of NAPS after following the school north from Bainbridge, MD, a few years before. Although my father was gone from NAPS before Mike's time there, I am sure he would have admired Mike as much as Mike's contemporaries do. Hail and farewell to Mike and cheers to all NAPSters. Janet Nolan"

"There are few more well respected and admired in the Navy community than Mike Lemieux. He served the nation and the Navy superbly and was a beacon for so many men and women in the sea service. He truly will be missed."

"My best to Nick and family for many years of fond memories. I remember Anne too! My brother Bob was a close friend and introduced Mike to our family. I saw Nick in 1995 in the Denver area and enjoyed our time together."

"Mike was a dear friend and neighbor.He was the first one who welcomed us to Overlook Point when we moved in. We will miss him very much."

"A great teacher and colleague. A joy to work with."

"We are truly saddened by the passing of such a warm and positive spirit. We will miss Mike at Overlook Point! God speed to him and sincere condolences to his family and many friends."

"what a wonderful, inspiring man. i know his family is so proud of him."

"Good-bye, Shipmate. I cherish our time in Yokosuka together and will always remember your XO looking all over USS OBRIEN for you ... only to find you baking a cheesecake in the galley! You were full of surprises and well loved by all your Shipmates -- well, mabye not that JO you kicked off the bridge that day! Thanks for always listening and for all your leadership tips during my tour. Mostly thanks for all the smiles and your friendship. We'll miss you. Fair winds and following seas."

"Captain Lemieux, was a tough and thorough XO. A more dedicated Naval Officer would be very hard to find! He could turn Heads and Beds into a daily challenge to try to exceed his expectations. USS Chosin was lucky to have him, and in a limited way, I've tried to use his examples to help my sailors often find their path! Captain Lemieux, Sir, you will be missed!"

"My children, husband, and I will always remember how kind and gracious Mike was to take time out of his day to give us a tour of the USS OBRIEN when it was docked in Hong Kong in 1997. Vince and Eileen, Mike was a great guy, and I am happy and proud to have met him. Elizabeth Mcilvain"

"Mike truly is a "hero" in every sense of the word. He inspired, motivated, led by example and lived the life of what embodies a hero. His strength and endurance were impressive, as was his positive attitude. We are blessed to have met him when he came to visit Texas."

"I had the pleasure to serve with Mike in Reeves. He was a superior Naval Officer and a real great guy. I have a picture of him and the bridge crew when we visied China in '86. It was an honor to be a shipmate. Well Done, Mike! Press On."

"Mike's legacy will be forever his unselfish devotion to his shipmates, his country and maintaining a sense of grace and humor in face of overwhelming odds. He made me a better man and for that I will be eternally grateful Semper Fi Shipmate"

"To Know him was to love him that was Mike. He was the warmest, kindest,gentlest man one could ever meet. He was the first to greet Bill and me when we moved to Overlook Point in 2002. We planned many great parties together in our Social Club and Mike was the only man in our Garden Club. He touched our loves and everyone who knew him. We all loved him. He fought a courageous battle, always smiling, never complaining, and loving every day.He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace"

"Mike was a good friend and an outstanding Director here at Overlook Point. He quite frequently provided the balanced insight and thoughtful perspective needed to resolve the issues we were wrestling with. He will be sorely missed by all of us. We are sincerely grieved by your loss."

"I'll miss him as a neighbor and fellow doggy guy. Semper Fi Dave Murphy"

"I hope God has lots of energy because Mike will challenge him in that regard. Truly one-of-a-kind, Mike was the best at many things but mostly, he was the best at being a friend who brought out the best in everyone. I cannot add more to what others have written about Mike except that I am a better person because of his friendship and mentoring. May he rest in peace and may God Bless the LeMieux family in this time of grief."

"Oh Captain, My Captain! You were a great Captain and mentor to me. You put faith and trust in me as a young Junior Officer JO under your USS OBRIEN leadership. I sometimes doubted my own abilities, but you nutured me to live up to my God given talents. I thrived trying to live up to your expectations. I will forever be in debt to your mentorship and friendship. We had some great times...Thank you! God Bless Captain Lemieux, Commander Brian Campbell"

"Gone but not forgotten. Fair Winds, XO!"

"mike lemieux was a fixture in our navy lives. with mike, we were part of a navy department head school class in mid 80s in newport -- a bunch of young officers together in winter almost 30 years ago!! anne and i were newlyweds with a baby. all our five kids have known mike all their lives, and he never flagged in offering encouragement, help in math and chemistry, and music instruction each and every time we met up -- and with four tours in newport, we met up frequently over wonderful dinners. we will really miss this soft spoken naval officer from colorado, who was always wonderful with our kids we knew, and so did his shipmates that he was a real pro, and could be tough as nails. mike, we will really, really, miss you. phil and anne wisecup and the kids."

"Michael - you were the best! Along with your two little fur people, Izzie & Mac, you made us laugh! We will miss you!"

"Mike was my sponsor dad at USNA. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to meet many of you from his very large family and I have to say that simply knowing Michael has greatly enriched my life, let alone having him as my Naval Academy sponsor and mentor for over 11 years! I had just returned from 2 months in Bahrain and was planning on flying up to see Capt when I heard the news. I'm simply devastated and I would like to offer my most sincere condolences. He was very much part of my family from my parents "adopting" him when he moved up to RI, to running through the woods outside my RI house looking for poor Loggy, his first Welsh Terrier, who ran off, to just about anything we could do to just spend time with such an extraordinary human being that Michael was. I just want you to know that I very much loved and respected Mike. He's had the most profound impact on my life. The world is a flatter place with his passing."

"From Admiral and Mrs. Jim Stavridis: In all our days and in the 26 years we knew him, neither of us ever met anyone with a deeper and more abiding love for life in all its facets than Mike Lemieux. Among many other things, he was a sailor who loved music, a musician who loved fountain pens, a writer who was a gourmet cook, a chef who adored old books, and a reader who loved fine art. There was very little that didn’t interest and intrigue Mike, from chemistry to literature, from wrestling to teaching, from single malt scotch to Cuban cigars. He excelled at all that he did, and we are especially glad he excelled at friendship. We knew Mike as a gifted Navy Sailor, a fine partner in the kitchen, a fellow bibliophile, a loyal shipmate, a wise old sea captain on the waterfront, and -- above all -- as a deeply loved friend."

"Mike was a joy to work and associate with during my tour as NAPS CO from 2004-2007. He didn't just teach, he cultivated his students, challenging them both in and out of class. During my second year he stepped into the breach as the Academic Dean. Despite suffering through a rebound of his cancer requiring him to urge us on via phone calls and emails he enacted huge changes in the academic structure at NAPS, all for the better. More than his professional expertise, Mike opened his hearth and home to one and all. He loved the sea as much as his scotch.. and we all loved him in return. He will live on in the hearts and minds of numerous junior officers who will in turn pass down Mike's love of life to others not yet born."

"Captain Lemieux was not only one of the most inspiring officers I have met, he was one of the most inspiring men I have ever met. He treated everyone with dignity and respect regardless of rank or status. His smile, caring nature, and dedication to service made an ever lasting impact not only in my life, but in the lives of many fellow Midshipman. We hold his memory in the highest regard. Neither he, nor the lessons he taugt us, will ever be forgotten. Very respectfully, Logan Baker MIDN USN"

"Mike gave us all pause for thought and we are all the better for having known him. He evinced the best of our values and behaviors through his generosity, his thoughtfulness, his genuine care about others, and his selflessness without ever demonstrating those less desirable human traits that most of us fall prey to. He was a "man for all seasons", interested and proficient in a broad spectrum of things from music, to art, to cooking, to literature, to science, to humanity. I will never forget him. We will never forget him."

"Michael - An amazing man, a fine naval officer, and a great friend. We will miss him terribly and smile when we think of him. Steve Johnson and Stephanie Ryan"

"There is no finer person, more capable naval officer or better friend than CAPT Mike Lemieux. We will miss Mike terribly, but smile when we remember him."

"Mike You were a great example and a true friend and shipmate. We will all miss your sense of humor and love of life. May the Lord hold you close Jerry"

"Captain, musician, teacher, chef, connoisseur of all the fine things in life -- Mike was one of a kind. He was an inspiration and joy to be around. The time I had to get to know him was too short, but I will always treasure those moments and fondly carry his memory with me."

"Our heartfelt condolences to all your family, Vince and Eileen. Mike was an outstanding person and he will be terribly missed. Hugs to all...R & P"