On October 16, 2026, we lost my father, Michael Killen, at the age of 61, following a devastating stroke. Surrounded by family and friends during his final days, he left this world knowing how deeply he was loved.

To some, he was Michael. To others, Mikel Sessions, the legendary hairstylist. To his closest friends, he was Cholo. And to his beloved grandson Nicolas, he was simply Gan Gan.

Whatever name you knew him by, Michael was unforgettable.

My dad was creative, funny, generous, charismatic, and larger than life. He had a rare magnetism that drew people to him from every walk of life.

He could walk into a room full of

strangers and leave with a room full of friends. He didn’t just light up a room; he made everyone feel like they belonged.

Professionally, Mikel Sessions was a legend in the hairstyling community. An Aveda-trained specialist and a wizard with color, he brought extraordinary artistry to his craft. From Krush,

Nimbus, and Lux to his most recent home at Hairs Inn, he built a career defined not only by talent but by the countless stylists he mentored and inspired.

Music was another great passion. For more than three decades, his closest friendships were built around unforgettable concerts, favorite DJs, Depeche Mode, and dancing until sunrise. Cholo was the life of the party, the brother everyone loved, and the friend who made every gathering memorable.

But nothing made my father prouder than his family. Having served in the U.S. Army himself, he took tremendous pride in my career as an Air Force Technical Sergeant. More importantly, he

celebrated the husband and father I had become.

And then there was Nicolas, his beloved grandson, who called him Gong Gong. My dad absolutely adored him and rarely missed an opportunity to talk about him. Being a grandfather brought him immeasurable joy.

How You Can Help

As my wife Karina, our son Nicolas, and I navigate this unexpected loss, we are asking for help honoring my father’s life and managing the financial responsibilities left behind.

Your donations will go toward funeral expenses, a celebration of life worthy of Michael’s remarkable spirit, outstanding end-of-life expenses, and immediate obligations associated with his home, including upcoming property taxes.

I am personally organizing this fundraiser and will receive and manage the contributions. Any funds remaining after these expenses will be set aside for Nicolas, carrying forward a part

of the legacy his Gong Gong cherished so deeply.

Every contribution, no matter the amount, is sincerely appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page or leaving a favorite memory of Michael.

My dad spent his life bringing people together. Even now, he’s doing it one more time.

The world is a little quieter without him, but we’ll keep the music playing, the laughter flowing, and the volume turned up. Just as Cholo would have wanted.

With love and gratitude,

Michael “Chance” Killen and Family