When my life changed so drastically in 2005, Mike stood by me in more ways than I can count. He was my angel through difficult times and he never let me wallow in self-pity. Always upbeat and positive, Mike kept me going when I didn't think I had a reason to.
Mike felt I needed a website to keep in touch with my fans after I left The Kingston Trio and also as a means of promoting my music. After struggling with several false starts here in Denver, Mike finally took over and put together this site. This is his creation and it would not exist without Mike Kavanagh and his vision of what a good website should be. I'm not sure now of the future of this site. Mike maintained it and paid for it, so I really don't know at this point how I can continue it without him.
Mike believed in me more than anyone else. He saw things in me that I didn't even see in myself, and he encouraged me to keep writing and producing music. When I needed money for studio time, Mike was there with a check. When I needed direction on a project he was full of great ideas. I suddenly feel so empty and sad.
Mike recently launched a syndicated radio program called "Folk Music America." In my opinion, this was the best folk music radio show ever, and possibly the best music show ever. Mike's knack for selecting wonderful and sometimes obscure music to play kept me listening to every minute of every show. His booming voice would recount behind-the-scenes stories about some of the music and artists that he played and each hour that he produced was immensely entertaining. I'm so fortunate to have these radio shows to listen to for the rest of my life and remember the big man with the big voice and the even bigger heart.
This has been such sad year, first with the loss of John Stewart in January, followed by Nick Reynolds' passing a couple months ago. Now Mike Kavanagh. I will cherish the memories of our times together and I thank God that he became such a big part of my life.
My heart goes out to his beautiful wife, Grace, who I know Mike loved so very much. Last year he commissioned me to write and record a song for their 30th wedding anniversary. I pray that Grace finds peace and comfort in this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Mike Kavanagh, my friend, my hero, and now more than ever, my angel...
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