[Mr MOE]

When I heard the news about Mike, I was speechless. It was very fitting that so many people directly affected by Mike were in the midst of doing what Mike is best known for by many - participating in a FIRST off-season competition. Many of us heard the sad news for the first time during the PA Robot Challenge on Saturday. If you must hear news like this, having others close by, who also appreciate your loss, helps the grieving process.

I have known Mike for years. He offered his NASA playing field to MOE 365 and 316 for our Duel on the Delaware off-season event, now entering it's sixth year. As Al Ostrow stated, we looked forward to catching up with Mike in the fall. I personally enjoyed his stories about his escapades with FIRST. He never ran out of stories to share.

Mike gave so much of himself for FIRST. It wasn't easy for him, but he did it and garnered so many positive results. His selfless gestures and behind-the-scenes victories allowed literally thousands of students the opportunity to interact with FIRST face-to-face. When we hear about Dean's goal of having a FIRST event within driving distance of everyone, it was Mike Wade who truly helped realize this goal.

Many of us owe so much to Mike for what he has done and to his family for sharing him with us.

Words cannot describe the sadness I feel and how deeply Mike will be missed. He was an awesome man and a fantastic role model.

Rest in peace, my friend.