Pine Creek Tradition- Po's story

     I met Mike at pine creek, waitressing.  He'd come in for breakfast or lunch, on his way to somewhere, work usually. He'd have coffee, and loved Dan's pancakes.  It was a splurge.  And he'd come in for dinner and music, with friends.

     He'd visit my shop at Pine Creek, always very supportive.  We both really liked Pendleton blankets, and Southwestern rugs, so that was an easy area of conversation.  Found all kinds of interests in common then, which led to friends in common.

     He had such friendly energy and life vitality.  He was very independent, but liked being around people too.   He created beautiful surroundings, at which he was very talented, for himself and his guests/friends.  He was meticulous about his work and creative projects.

     He was curious about how the world works and put effort into trying to stay open minded.  Perhaps his sense of aesthetics helped him appreciate different things, places, people.  He questioned a lot.  I admired him for seeking balance and beauty to ease life.  He was kind, fun and adventurous.  We miss what he added to our lives.  We hold his space for him here among us too, like I'm sure others all over the globe do. 

Happy birthday Mike.

-Po,
Montana

62

Michael would have been 62 today.  (If this is shocking news to you, well, he may have fibbed about his age a bit...just a bit. )

Happy Birthday, Pops, we are thinking of you!

Finn, Quillan, Alysse

Michael G. Hennessey obituary

Michael George Hennessey passed away on 11/18/10 due to complications from a series of heart attacks.  He was born in Michigan, in 1950, to Helen and George Hennessey.  Most of his youth was spent in Southern California, adventuring and surfing with his brother Joe, and their friends.  He married Pamela Fudger in 1969, they later divorced, but remained close friends throughout life.  Michael moved to Montana 30 years ago to live out his dreams building beautiful homes, learning to fly planes, and play music where there's plenty of nature and space to be who you want to be.  He was a fly fisherman, golfer, skier, world traveler, wood worker, reader, interior designer, builder, story-teller, mentor and charmer.  

Michael Hennessey was also known as "Uncle Mike" and the "go-to guy" because he enjoyed helping.  He was a generous and loyal friend.  He loved animals, nature and children.  He was always questioning, and learning, taking on the next building challenge and planning his next travel adventure.   

He is survived by his daughter, Alysse and his young grandsons, Finn and Quillan Hennessey of Eugene Oregon, his brothers Joe, Mark and David Hennessey, and many beloved friends.  His grandsons will especially miss his visits full of stories, music, tool practice and building time, and floats down the river.  

Every time he jumped in his truck, he'd pause and say, "Safe and happy trip".  Let's remember him with that Michael grin and twinkle in his eye, heading off on his next adventure.  

Paradise Valley Cowboy xoxoxo
photo courtesy of JZphotoart

If this is your first visit to Mike's page, please click the Welcome page on the right side bar, and find out how to add your Mike stories and images.  

Welcome Page

Welcome!  I started this blog as a way for his friends and family connect.  Dad had so many friends all around the globe.  He lived a big life.  Many have had a hard time finding his family- knowing how to contact us.  You've wanted to share thoughts, pictures, ask questions, meet his grand sons, tell stories. This is a great place to do just that. 

xoxoxox Montana Mike xoxoxoxo

(photo by John Zumpano)

I'm Alysse Hennessey, his daughter.  I live in Eugene, Oregon, with my two boys.  Mom lives in town too. 

We are all shocked to loose him so soon.  I know.  He passed away just before Thanksgiving, 2010, in Billings hospital after a series of heart attacks.  It's taken me awhile to feel like I can really reach out.  

Please feel free to spread the word about this blog so folks can have a look and perhaps to share photos and stories.  Email your stories and photos to me at Alyssehennessey@gmail.com