Sunday, July 21, 2024
Dear Christa, Petra, Tina and family,
We were so sad to hear of Mike’s passing - we want to express our heartfelt condolences. We are thinking of you and praying for you as you grieve this tremendous loss of your precious husband/father.
We will remember Mike for his warm, hospitable and generous nature. Even from my childhood memories, I remember Mike as always being friendly, interested in people’s thoughts, a good conversationalist and listener, and having a great sense of humour. My parents were so grateful for Mike reaching out and befriending Makoto when he first arrived at NB Power, and for continued friendship over the years. Mike and your family made us feel welcome as newcomers to Canada, introducing us to people, places and way of life in Fredericton, and drawing us into your circle. We have many fond memories of times with your family - meals together at one of our houses, Christmas celebrations at the Konczes on December 26, even a cross-country skiing outing where we thought something happened to Mike and Makoto because they didn’t come back for hours (as it turned out, only a broken binding).
As you honour and celebrate Mike’s life in the coming days, may you find comfort and strength in the love of your family and the support of your friends. May God give you a peace that passes understanding and may you have tears of joy amidst sorrow in the warm memories of your beloved husband and father.
With deep sympathy,
Hiroko, Yoko & Makoto Sawai
