Michael Tuthill

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Mike: Forver In Our Hearts

Wanted to share this really nice rock memorial that our cousins Katie Warren and Bess Milligan created for Mike.

They went back two weeks later and the rocks had not been touched by anyone.

Thanks & Love you both this meant a lot to us.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Mikey's Birthday

Today (January 27th) is Michael’s birthday. Every day without Michael is a struggle and today for us, and I am sure for many others, will be one of the hardest. As a family we would like to thank all of the wonderful friends and family that have been there for us and continue to lend their support and compassion.

We lost Mike to one of those strange Sudden Cardiac Arrests that seem to affect so many healthy young men. Sudden Cardiac Death is not a "heart attack" or myocardial infarction caused by clogged arteries. It's an electrical problem in which the cardiac conduction system that generates the impulses regulating the heart suddenly puts out rapid or chaotic electrical impulses, or both. The heart ceases its rhythmic contractions, and the brain is starved of oxygen. Michael had an underlying and undiagnosed abnormality with his heart, which acted as a trigger to his Sudden Cardiac Death.

As we mentioned above, the loss has devastated all of us, and we find it unbelievably hard to talk about Mike. Please understand that at this time none of us are able to reach out to friends and family to discuss the loss and pain. When someone so healthy, strong and full of life dies so young, no explanation is ever sufficient to ease the pain or to make any sense of it.

If you would like to do something in honor of Michael today, we ask that you please make a donation to support the Red Cross and the current efforts to bring relief to the people and children of Haiti. To donate to the Red Cross in tribute of Mike click here. Choose a program, for example “Where the need is greatest” to support the Haiti Relief Fund. If you would like to send a Tribute eCard please use the following e-mail address: mikesfamily13@gmail.com. A tribute card does not show us the amount you donated only your name and a customized message. Even a donation of 10 dollars makes a huge impact! We know this would have been an organization and cause Mike would have been very compassionate about and proud to have his friends and family support in his memory.

Happy Birthday Mike.

Lots of Love,

Mom, Dad, Karissa & Kailey

The Holidays...A time for peace, love & laughter

After the loss of a loved one, the Holiday Season brings special memories and tender moments of sadness.

We are also reminded of special friends and family like you. Through your love and the love we have for one another, we know that in time the Holidays will once again be filled with hope, peace and joy.

May you keep Michael’s spirit shining bright in your heart. Remember those special moments with him that bring a smile to your face and happiness to your heart.

May you be blessed with peace, love and laughter this Holiday Season and throughout the coming year.

Lots of Love,
Bill, Barb, Karissa and Kailey

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Michael's Memorial Video

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Details for Mike's Memorial Service

Thank you all for all of the wonderful stories, please keep them coming as they are very comforting and make us all smile and laugh. The memorial will be held on September 26, 2009 at the Garden of the Gods Club at 1 p.m.

Garden of the Gods Club
3320 Mesa Rd. Colorado Springs, CO.

The memorial is an open invitation, but to help us plan please e-mail mikesfamily13@gmail.com with your name and the approximate # of attendees in your group. Thank you.

Memorial Service Details:
1 pm to 2 pm: Memorial Service held in the Garden of the Gods Club Main Dining Hall
2 pm to 3 pm: Reception on the Sunrise Terrace at the Garden of the Gods Club
3:30 pm - : Gathering at the Tuthill's House, click here for directions from the Garden of the Gods Club to our house or see map below.

View Larger Map

How can I help?
Please don't feel obligated to bring anything. However, for those of you who would like to bring food, we ask that you please do not bring food to the Club as we are not allowed to serve outside food. If you would like to bring food, we would greatly appreciate if you brought it by our house before or after the service (map and directions above). In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Charity in memory of Michael (further details below).

Lodging Information:
The Marriott
5580 Tech Center Drive, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919
Tel: 1-719-260-1800

Embassy Suites
7290 Commerce Center Drive, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919
Tel: 1-719-599-9100

The Hampton Inn
7245 Commerce Center Dr., Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919
Tel: 1-719-593-9700

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Charity

Michael loved all ages, but he had a true gift for making a
child smile as well as a passion to help kids in need. Mike was preparing his application for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Unfortunately, his life was taken from him before he had the chance to volunteer. In memory of our boy Michael, we have set up a memorial fund for him with this worthy organization.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable contribution in memory of Michael Tuthill, to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America at 239 N. 13th Street, Philadephia, PA 19107.

Online donations can be made by visiting www.bbbs.org, click "Donate Now" on the right side of the page, then click "Make a memorial or tribute gift" link on the right side of the page.