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Who is Mike?
When my husband, Mike, passed away on December 31, 2015, he left behind broken hearts. But he also left behind a legacy of service to Apple Valley, his home for 45 years. A generation of "gym rats" grew up under his gentle guidance in his 15 years with the Apple Valley Recreation and Park District. He led thousands of kids through the youth basketball program; coached hundreds; founded the pee wee sports programs; and made sure the gym was a safe place to hang out when sometimes it was the only option for some of the kids.
After switching careers, he continued in community service when he was appointed by the Town Council to the Parks and Recreation Commission, where he served for ten years, and was chairman at the time of his death.
What's this campaign about?
On behalf of Mike's family, we are deeply honored that the Apple Valley Parks and Recreation Commission and the Town Council have voted to name the gymnasium after him. Mike would, first of all, think the whole thing is ridiculous, because he never did any of those things for recognition. He would also insist that no Town funds be used.
What's the money for?
The money raised will be used to place signage on the front of the gym at 13413 Navajo Road, Apple Valley, CA. It will also pay for a bronze dedication plaque.
What if we raise more?
Any funds exceeding the cost of the signage will be used to place a memorial bench in Civic Center Park on Dale Evans Parkway and may also be used for equipment and improvements to the gym.
On behalf of "Big Mike" - thank you.
I was overwhelmed with the outpouring of support when Mike passed. I was amazed at the stories of how many lives he touched through his work in recreation - because he was too humble to have told me about them himself. I hope you will see this as a small way you can help pay it forward in the name of "Big Mike."
With gratitude,
Kathie Martin
When my husband, Mike, passed away on December 31, 2015, he left behind broken hearts. But he also left behind a legacy of service to Apple Valley, his home for 45 years. A generation of "gym rats" grew up under his gentle guidance in his 15 years with the Apple Valley Recreation and Park District. He led thousands of kids through the youth basketball program; coached hundreds; founded the pee wee sports programs; and made sure the gym was a safe place to hang out when sometimes it was the only option for some of the kids.
After switching careers, he continued in community service when he was appointed by the Town Council to the Parks and Recreation Commission, where he served for ten years, and was chairman at the time of his death.
What's this campaign about?
On behalf of Mike's family, we are deeply honored that the Apple Valley Parks and Recreation Commission and the Town Council have voted to name the gymnasium after him. Mike would, first of all, think the whole thing is ridiculous, because he never did any of those things for recognition. He would also insist that no Town funds be used.
What's the money for?
The money raised will be used to place signage on the front of the gym at 13413 Navajo Road, Apple Valley, CA. It will also pay for a bronze dedication plaque.
What if we raise more?
Any funds exceeding the cost of the signage will be used to place a memorial bench in Civic Center Park on Dale Evans Parkway and may also be used for equipment and improvements to the gym.
On behalf of "Big Mike" - thank you.
I was overwhelmed with the outpouring of support when Mike passed. I was amazed at the stories of how many lives he touched through his work in recreation - because he was too humble to have told me about them himself. I hope you will see this as a small way you can help pay it forward in the name of "Big Mike."
With gratitude,
Kathie Martin