Memories of Mike

In late August 1994 I moved from Los Angeles to Boston to go to graduate school at Boston University. Prior to moving I submitted an ad to the local gay paper in Boston, Bay Windows, listing that I was looking for a room to rent—mature lesbian looking for a mature roommate! Mike called me early one morning, introduced himself, and said that he had rented the first floor of an old house in Allston, and was leaving Nevada to go to graduate school too. I told him that I was not only looking for a room for myself but a place in which my girlfriend (and a dog, cat, and rabbit) could move into with me in a few months. After chatting a bit, Mike said all was great and he offered to rent me a room. An agreement was made via phone and a plan to meet up in Boston at the end of August. We found each other at the BU student union, took the subway to Allston, and our journey began.

I couldn’t have hand-picked a more delightful and generous housemate. It was meant to be. I arrived with only a suitcase and Mike lent me a futon, bedding, and a lamp and made me feel right at home. He cooked a delicious meal—the first of many I was to share with him. Mike was incredibly thoughtful. My schedule at school was crazy, classes in the day and rehearsals until 11 at night. When I arrived home after rehearsal, I would find a plate with dinner in the frig especially prepared for me. Mike was an excellent cook. I can still taste his chicken vindaloo! When Laura and the menagerie arrived in January, Mike welcomed all with open arms. And of course he prepared a delicious dinner immediately. Over time, we enjoyed many meals together, drinking, sharing stories, laughing and talking late into the night.

A funny story about our dog, Bryher. I was nervous when I initially told Mike we had a dog because I knew it would be incredibly difficult to find a place to rent. He didn’t hesitate, said he loved dogs, and that Bryher was welcome. What he didn’t tell us was that the landlord didn’t allow dogs! So every time the landlord came by, we had to pretend the dog belonged to the neighbors across the street. Luckily, they played along but there were definitely some close calls.

When Mike moved to NYC we kept in touch. We made it a point to get together when I was in the city and always shared a meal. Mike was great fun to hang out with, always interested in what others were doing, a wonderful listener and conversationalist. Although I’m very sad at his passing, I’m left with the memory of Mike’s infectious smile, laughter, and generosity. Sweet memories…