"My interests and passions have driven all my endeavors, particularly my love for water and the desire to inspire others to enjoy it so they will protect it. I attribute most of my passions and successes to my father: From him, I learned to love the outdoors: Scouting, swimming, fishing, canoeing, camping, hunting (marksmanship), sports, plus other interests: model airplanes, flying, drumming, art and science. He also encouraged me to excel in all that I do, to work hard and pay attention to details."

After earning a degree in Architecture in 1971, he moved to Traverse City and founded Scuba North, then Sail North, Sail Plan and eventually Harbor Boat Shop and Traverse Area Community Sailing, culminating with the creation of the Discovery Center~Great Lakes, which is his current labor of love and retirement project. He has also played key roles in notable Traverse City developments: Harbor West Marina, River’s Edge, Midtown Centre, Cambria Suites Hotel, and Uptown. Retired as of July 2021 and can be found fly fishing on the river.

Here is Mike's story from the May 2022 event.