Mike was a 6th Grader when I first taught for Sidney Public Schools.  He was a typical boy of that age, onery, kind, amusing all wrapped up into one.   

One of my duties at Central Elementary was to audition singers for a special "swing choir" The Rainbow Connection.   Mike auditoned and was chosen.   He had a lovely boy soprano voice.   I think maybe Mike had second thoughts after trying out and was not too excited about being in the group.   One afternoon he came to talk to me during lunch.   He said he could not make rehearsal after school because he had to help his Grandfather cut cattle.    I told him that was fine and I would exect him the following week.   Something about his story just seemed rather funny and I began to think about when we helped bring in the cattle and branded/cut.   I remember when we helped with this we started early in the morning and were generally finished by mid afternoon.   

When it was time for the bell to ring at the end of the day I waited outside his classroom for him to come out.   His face was priceless when he saw me.   I relayed my story of helping with round up and then asked him if he was really going to his Grandpas.   He lowered his eyes and said no.   I smiled at him and told him let's go to rehearsal.   He did and actually I believe he enjoyed the rehearsal.  

I am saddened to know the family has lost a valued member of their family.    I pray that peace and comfort surround you.   I know he is singing with the angels.

Sincerely,

Kathy Simpson