Michael Wilson

He was a great help for me and my education at the VA. Wonderful man. My deepest sympathy to the family.

Mike and I started as colleagues and then became close friends. He was an extremely caring and kind man -one of the finest I've ever known. He was an extremely talented, polished and professional trainer all the while fostering a comforting and friendly work environment. Mike had an easy wit and a wonderful sense of humor. He was always fun to be around as he always brought out the best in people and made them smile. With these qualities, his faith and devotion to his family and friends he was someone that always had and always will have my deepest respect and admiration. I regret that time moved too quickly I didn't have just one more visit with my friend. Sherry, Bre and Christian - my heart pours out to you with my sincerest sympathies.

Working with Mike in Education at the VA, I experienced his caring and support for both his colleagues and the veterans he met along the way. Ginny and I share our sympathies with Sherry and family. He will be missed.

We went to my wife’s family cabin on a small WI lake with Christian and my Little Brother’ Steven Wilems whom I was mentoring. The kids were quite young. About two days in Steven announced “My Mom says I have lice.” Oh God! Mike, you were in the service…what do we do? I don’t know, he said. I was an officer. ‘. We rushed the little fella into a barber shop. “See anything moving?” I asked…. Nope just a lot of dirt. Okay, whew! Shave the mop down yo a crew cut please.’ After inspection Christian asked “Where is the Owl house Dad? We looked at each other…”Oh, he means out-house!!

Rest easy Airman. We have the watch. Mike was one of the first people I met when I was a new hire at the VA. We both served in the USAF, but it was his passion for delivering veteran centered care that remains with me today.