In the comment section below, please take a moment to write down your favorite memories of Mike, why he meant so much to you, or any wishes you want to send to Mike's family and loved ones. Also, feel free to email any pictures you may have of Mike and they will be posted on the site. Please email them to amir.pl.shariat@gmail.com.
Thank you all for your prayers and kind wishes. It is a testament to the kind of man Mike was to have such an outpouring of support from everyone around him.
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Gabby~ Paramedic, Yolo County
ReplyDeleteHaving lots of family in Yolo County, I never had to worry if my family would recieve good care when 'Mike The Machine'was working. He had the best work ethics and lead by example. He always strived to be a better Paramedic. Today, AMR lost a good employee, Yolo County lost an amazing Paramedic, I lost a wonderful co-worker, and Amir lost a great partner and friend. My heart goes out to Alma and Mike Denman's family.
The times I saw Mike and had the oppurtunity to talk to him, the first thing I noticed was his smile. He had the most contagious smile! Each time I saw Mike, he always brightened my day! Mike will be greatly missed! He was loved and cherished by all that knew him. Prayers and thoughts to his family and friends.
ReplyDeleteMuch love, Heather-Sac Co EMT
I remember Mike used to tell me when he first became a medic and ran a tough call, he'd say to himself "WWJTD". I asked him what it meant, and he said "What Would JT Do". It always cracked me up, but appreciated his respect for my experience. He was a great guy with a great sense of humor, intellect and compassion. He liked everyone, and everyone liked him; a rarity in life, and a special person. I will miss you Machine; take care of us from up there.
ReplyDeleteMike was one of the people I looked foreward to seeing the most when I worked there. He always had a warm smile and hug no matter the time or day. You will be very missed Mikey and never forgotten. I love you, and I'm sure God has a plan for you in heaven. He must have needed an extra special angel up there.
ReplyDeleteLauren Lawson <3
Back in the day when I dispatched nights Mike used to call me after running a call..he wouldn't even say hello, as soon as I said "AMR" he would start with what he called rap trivia....it was great...the shock in his voice when I would get it correct was priceless!!! He always made me smile....his smile was something else!!
ReplyDeleteI have acctually know Mike D longer than anyone in AMR, him and I both worked for Medic ambulance years and years ago!!! :)
He will always be in my heart!! WE love Mike D, AMR will never be the same!!!!
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family!!! Mike was an amazing light to this world!!!
Love, Candi, Amr Dispatch
Here in Davis we called him "Big Mike." We were always happy to see him on calls. He was a great Medic. Just like Gabby a lot of us have family in Yolo County and had no worries when BiG Mike was on shift. We will miss him dearly especially his Big Mike smile. Rest in Peace brother.
ReplyDeleteBlas L3494
I was truly touched by Mike's hunmor and passion. Splintfest? Yolo food drive! It would be amazing if Yolo could turn the Yolo Food Drive into an annual Mike "The Machine" Denman Memorial Yolo County Food Drive.
ReplyDeleteHe will truly be missed!
DA
The introduction of the ipod into Mikey's life was huge and hilarious! Once he had it you never saw him without it... I asked him why he always had it on. He told me..."It's the soundtrack for my life!" "You gotta get one! "His smile was contagious and he was the most intelligent man I have ever met. I did in fact get an ipod and it goes with me everywhere. And like Mike...it is the soundtrack of my life. I miss you my friend. My deepest condolences and prayers to Alma and the Denman family. The world has lost a great man and Heaven has acquired an even greater Angel.
ReplyDeleteCindy E.
I was lucky to have been able to have worked with Mike on several shifts.He was always smilling.He had a great out look on life.Allways enjoyed seeing him at the ERs and having a good time catching up.We will all miss you. Rest in peace Machine.Our prayers are with you and your loved ones.
ReplyDeletePhil DeSmet
I didn't know Mike nearly as well as everyone else that knew him, but the one conversation I had with him at Splintfest showed me what an honorable and kind person he was... his genuine interest in what we were going through with our son was heartwarming. His spirit will continue to live on at Yolo Ops and in each and every person that had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in peace - my prayers are with all of his friends, loved ones, family and his AMR family.
ReplyDeleteJennifer Paoli
I wish I had known Mike better. I've read all of the comments and condolences written by others, and feel that I missed out on a great partner, friend, and comedian. My heart goes out to those who knew, loved, and worked with Mike. Thanks for sharing your life with us, Mike!
ReplyDeleteJared, Placer County
BigMike was the MAN! He was a great medic and an even better guy. We always knew that things were gonna be allright when Mike rolled on scene. Mike you will be sorely missed here in Davis. Rest in Peace bro.
ReplyDeletethe Dan Wong
The "Machine" was a great employee and an excellent paramedic. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such a thoughtful and caring person. The comments regarding Mike and his music are true and go beyond what it meant to him personally. I remember that Mike had his own IV tray complete with speakers so that he could play music for his patients just to make them more comfortable. You will be missed.
ReplyDeleteJohn Poland
Mike "The Machine" Denman, I will stop thinking about you and can't stop crying over losing you. The world truly was a better place with you in it. We had alot of great times working 24 hour shift in Yolo and even better time beating up Shannon Belli's boys. I have lost a brother. Rest in Peace!!
ReplyDeleteJeff Waltrip
I remember the first time I met Mike "the machine" Denman. His welcoming smile and infectious laugh made me feel like we were old friends who had reconnected after a long absence. Until we reconnect again, may you rest in peace.
ReplyDeleteMichael Rebello AMR CCT-RN
A few days before I heard Mike was in the hospital, I had asked him a question regarding the trauma section of my book for medic school. Mike not only answered my question, but he stayed 20 minutes past his shift to help me understand the concept and how it applies to us in the field. I never had a chance to thank him and for that I will not have closure. That is Mike. He is a person who all of us could count on every single day and if someone needed assistance, he was there with a smile on his face willing to lend a hand. Mike never complained about anything.
ReplyDeleteSo to Mike's memory, I will get back on the ambulance and do my job to the best of my ability, just as he did every single day.
Travis- Yolo EMT
I remember my ride-a-long with Mike because NEVER had I encountered a man with so many ideas! He and Amir were exhausted from just completing splintfest but Mike was already running new idea after new idea by me. I could see the enthusiasm in his eyes and feel the love in his heart. I was constantly impressed by his desire to unite the AMR crews and the community. Words can't express how much you will be missed Mike. Rest in Peace.
ReplyDeleteKristy Harlan
Though I have not seen Mike or most of the rest of my AMR family for sometime, my heart breaks at the loss. Mike had infectious personality and great heart. He went out of his way to help those in need. He will be truely missed. Rest in Peace Mike.
ReplyDeleteJennifer Leighty
Mike attended paramedic school at NCTI and it was my pleasure to be his instructor. One thing for sure, he could alsways make me laugh. I remember once a voice mail he left that lasted for about ten minutes and I laughed the entire time!! He was a good student, a good paramedic and I will miss him. I do recall numerous conversations with him and he shared with me how much he loved his mother. She is a lucky woman. Vicki Wolf
ReplyDeleteMike, The Machine, you were a beautiful soul... Last night we were sitting at the conference table at Yolo Ops, and the subject of that IV tray of yours came up, and we all smiled at how meticulously you kept it. I remember on Thursday mornings, our Friday but your Monday, you'd carry your IV tray into the supply room to stock it *just so*, with your earbuds in and that bright smile on your face. I remember working with you the day that iPod was delivered, and how worried you were about it sitting unattended on your doorstep until you got home. And like Cindy said above, once you got it, you were never, ever without it. You were a rare personality, truly kind and good. You were far more inclined to laugh at your own expense than someone else's... I hope this can inspire us all to be the kind of person you were, the kind of person who made an impression and left the world better than you found it. I also hope your family and Alma can take some comfort in knowing how blessed we all feel to have known you. May you rest in peace. ~Rachel T
ReplyDeleteMike was one of a kind and will be missed by all. It's difficult to add anything than what's already been said. I feel fortunate to have known Mike.
ReplyDeleteWords will never be able to describe our disbelief and the shattered status that we find ourselves in due to the early departure of our fallen brother. The machine was far more than just a co-worker, friend, and mentor. For most of us the machine was our hero, our conscience, and our motivator.
ReplyDeleteI truly pity those who did not know Mike Denman. The machine had a unique way to make everyone feel special, appreciated, and loved. Despite the countless disappointments that we would encounter, the machine was able show us the up side of down.
Without a doubt Mike is the most selfless person imaginable. His priorities were far more than just helping those in need. Recently, he inspired us to make a difference with autism and encourage us all to fight the on going battle of hungry.
My deepest thoughts and preys will always be with the Denman family for their lost. We are sincerely grateful to you all for sharing with us such an amazing man.
Our strongest warrior has been defeated, our tallest titan has fallen… but the machine will ALWAYS live within us all… in our hearts, souls, and memories.
I shall always dawn my earbugs… blasting your soundtrack of life…
Gabriel R. Cruz
I can't ever remember a time that Mike was not smiling. I first met him in 2004 when he came through Paramedic school at NCTI. He definitely made my job more entertaining! Like Vicki said, I have numerous voicemails saved from him. From his adventures in his field internship to once he became a medic. I am so glad that I was able to know him and I will truly miss him!
ReplyDeleteAngela McWhirter
NCTI Roseville
I found the e-mail from him below that sums up "The Machine" that I knew:
__________________________________________
Whats up Angela..this is Mike Denman...aka, The Machine...just wanted to thank you on getting me in at Mercy San Juan...so there i was, walking into the e.r., humming my favorite tune, when i hear a voice cry out "MY GOD, THIS MAN NEEDS A DOCTOR!" i turn around and to my horror see a man laying on the gurney with obvious chest trauma..."SOMEONE PLEASE HELP HIM!" ok...i said to myself...so i took off my leather driving gloves and put on my extra large latex gloves (gloves for the full figured male!) and slowly walked toward the gentleman..."nurses!" i said in a calm but demanding voice. "this man is going to live! there will be no dying on my shift! but first things first, i need my tools so i can open this guys chest up...oh and call down to the morgue and see if there are any mitral valves handy down there...i could use a tricuspid, but preferably a mitral..." needless to say...i opened up this dudes chest, had one of the docs massage the heart, my phones ringing off the hook at the same time...i look at it, and its carlos santana! all while i perform ed emergency surgery right there in the e.r. there were no valves downstairs, so i had one of the techs fashion me one out of a coffee cup lid...i know what you are thinking!!! how did he use the coffee cup lid as a mitral valve?..well...it was just a temporary fix, but it would keep him alive for now...afterwards, i reported to my preceptor and told them that i was ready to learn...ok...i made that up...but i do like it there!
wind...
The Machine
Mike rode one shift with me during his paramedic training.It was the dead of winter, and he had his ever-present hat on-and he informed me he was ready to learn, so he hoped I was ready to teach-and I liked him immediately :)
ReplyDeleteHe began by assisting me in an assessment of our first patient, who he turned on the heater for-realizing she would be cold. He began sweating...alot. The patient commented on this, asking if he was uncomfortable with the heat. He flashed his trademark smile and said "No ma'am! I'm a tropical people, and this heat is just perfect for me!"
I knew right then he would not be just a great medic, but an outstanding medic who would make a difference; because he was a great man. Many people were fortunate he chose our profession, because his presence made us better.
I remember Mike as an EMT in Alameda County. BLS was such a blast with him in the field. He was such a positive, funny, great guy to know. He will be missed.
ReplyDeleteAnn Wong
Alco EMT
Mike was always a bright ray of sunshine that lit up my day whenever we ran across each other at work. He was a warm, thorough, compassionate medic who ALWAYS had a smile on his face. He made this world a better place, and he will be missed tremendously.
ReplyDeleteJen Nilsson, UC Davis FD
Every once in awhile in life you have the privilege of meeting a person whose spirit and warmth infect you in a profound way. You cannot help but feel better about life because of it. Mike Denman was one of those people. Though many of us may have not been close to him, when he was around it always felt comfortable. That was what was so special about him - the ability to make everyone feel like a friend.
ReplyDeleteThose that knew him are better for it. The AMR family lost a brother and will never forget the warmth and kindness that he brought to all of us. My heart goes out to his family and close friends. Rest In Peace, Machine.
-Nick Hooker
Mike was just a fantastic guy, always quick-witted but as kind as you could ever imagine. I have one memory that sticks out most for me, however:
ReplyDeleteMike picked up my shift on the Davis unit with my partner James so that I could walk in my graduated from UCD. Somehow, Mike and James were able to get over to the campus and get into the graduation. When they called my name to have me walk up, Mike let loose with one of the loudest yells I've ever heard. I looked over and there are Tiny and The Machine just going wild. When I asked him afterwards about it he simply said "You're my brother, that's what family does for each other". That pretty well sums up Mike for those who didn't know him, everyone was in his family, no questions asked. Mike was the guy who would go to the mat for his friends, no matter what. I absolutely feel like I'm a better person for having known him. Godspeed Machine, thank you for all the lives you touched along the way, you won't be forgotten.
- Patrick Lickiss
Paramedic - Alameda County AMR (formerly Yolo EMT)
Memories I will cherish...
ReplyDeleteMike and I would periodically text each other old school raps to each other. The unique thing about these raps was, we would change the lyrics by subbing EMS related words. Mike would have me in stiches. An example of a Mike D classic from a Nototious B.I.G. song "Juicy." The beginning of the song starts "It was all a dream, I used to read Word Up magazine, Salt n Pepper/Heavy D up in da limousine." Mike D's version, "I had a dream I was featured in JEMS magazine, Mike D and David Beene up in this AMR limousine"
I am sad you are gone Mike, but am happy and greatful you touched mine and so many others lives.
RIP my friend - David Beene
Mike, you know you made everyones life better. I know I'm a better person just being friends with you. You were always happy and made everyone around you happy. Your smile was so bright you could stop traffic. The times we had together, like when we picked up the old guy with all the racest tattoo's and I looked over at you and said right in front of the guy, damn this guys day went from bad to worse. You call for an ambulace cause your sick, and who shows up? The only two black guys in Yolo county. Mike just smiled and laughed. That's what kind of guy you were mike, didn't have a mean bone in his body.
ReplyDeleteMike you passed way before your time. I know your in a better place right now. And I know heaven just got much cooler place with you up there. And I know you are up there hanging with all the cool kats. I'm gonna miss your smile as everyone will as well. I'd give anything to see that smile one more time. I know when it's my time that smile is gonna be the first thing I see. I tried working today and I couldn't work the whole day. Just talking on the radio made me cry. I was waiting to hear your Yah yah when I key up the mic. Your gonna be missed by all but never forgotten. I know you watching over all of us right now and that makes me smile. Till we meet again my brother!! RIP Mike D
Arden Parker EMT Yolo county
Not many people in this world are capable of making you feel rare, appreciated and welcome the first time you meet. Mike was one of these people, and I know everyone who came in contact with Mike is better for that. I feel lucky to have had such an amazing person touch my life in a way that no one else could. If everyone could live and love the way you did, Mike, the world would be a better place... We all love you and miss you like a big brother, rest in peace friend..
ReplyDeleteJ-Fib... (Mike gets it..)
I first met "The Machine" when he was doing his clinicals at methodist hospital. Little beknown I got the honor of knowing this great specimen of a man and working alongside him in placer and now yolo. I am better for knowing him for the short time he was with us.
ReplyDeleteMike is the most intelligent person I have ever met. His is vocabulary is out of this world. Like everyone said his smile is very contagious.
Everytime I see Mike he would say my name in such a way that would make me smile and laugh. A few years ago I remember driving back to ops for crew change and noticed on the windshield of my truck a pillow case taped on with with some writing. As I got closer it read "If loving Huy is Troung, then I dont want to be right." That made me crack up and to this day. I will always remember that. I confronted him about who did it but he always denied it. I knew it was him because he's the only one who spells my last name wrong. It's "U" before "O" Mike.
You are in GOD's hands now.
Miss you buddy
Huy Truong Paramedic Yolo County
Because of that bright shining beacon of a smile, Mike was one of those people I always knew I could go to when I needed a good laugh. The world is a bit darker place for having lost you Mike. Keep that smile bright because i'm gonna need that beacon to find my way up there bud.
ReplyDeleteChase Yolo EMT
Mike was a great guy and the first person I ever did a ride a long on a BLS ambulance with when long time ago in ALCO. He made me feel welcome and we had lots of laughs during that 12 hour shift. A year later, I was hired and worked a few days with him and we had a blast cruising the streets of Oakland. Mike will be greatly missed.
ReplyDeleteArt Garcia
ALCO FIre Fireman/Paramedic
and
ALCO AMR Paramedic
I do not think that anyone can truly sum up the love, compassion and joy that this man possessed.
ReplyDeleteHe will always be remembered as the kindest person i have ever met. The "Machine" will live on in all of our memories and hearts. Yolo AMR I am sorry for your loss.
To the family of Mike, my prayers will be with you, be comforted with the fact that he has gone home.
I Dawn my ear-buds with respect We love you Machine.
-Battlefield
Mike, your contagious laugh and smile will be remembered always. I did not know you as well as your Yolo family did but what i will always remember is how you made being around you enjoyable. Everyone smiled whenever you were around. I am truly blessed to have known you, and I know you will always be looking through our eyes and hearts and be with us forever.
ReplyDeleteTo Mike's Family, my heart aches for you in this difficult time. I hope our memories and comments help you cope with the loss of your loved one. Mike had a huge heart and will be missed terribly...
Working with mike, having him as my partner was the most amazing time of my life, ever in a work environment. You always knew that your pt. was in the best hands possible. I loved when we would show up on scene and people would see us to big guys get out of the rig, there anxiety towards our size was soon relieved as soon as mike spoke, unless I would "Jenkins's " it up as mike would say if I was being extra special that day. Mike taught me that everyone is equal and all people should be treated as if they were our very own family. I'll miss our political debates, our medical talks about micro biology where I understood maybe two words of what he said, and his stories of his high school days where he would always say " valley high represent" what what! " .
ReplyDeleteNoone will ever come close to the love and respect mike has from all of us. He truly had a heart of gold. I miss you so much my friend and mentor. Truly one in a million. Much love!
Eric Jenkins
This is to Mike's mother, thank you so much for and sharing mike with us, i am not sure if you really ever will ever know to the fullest extent of just how much we loved this man. Mike was more that just another employee that worked beside us, he was a friend, Mentor, and part of our family. Mike was never without a smile, a story or asking about a call he just ran. He Would say Ramon you have been here longer than dirt what would you have done? my answer to him all the time was, what did you do and will i have to repersent you in a meeting with the boss. He would just smile laugh and say hell you know me better than that, place his ear buds in and walk away. I remember trying to steal that IV tray once and hiding it from him, man he was like a hound dog he sniffed it out before i got out of the building, to this day i think he had GPS on it. As i read through the letters that have been left on this site anyone can planily see that Mike was that one in a million. someone that that touched us all, it truly is sad that we never realized that until he was gone, and really took the time to reflect back. Mike is and will be missed a lot by all of us. What I would like everyone to do today is to look at the person sitting next to you in your unit and just tell them
ReplyDelete1 thing that you admire about them. please don't wait till it is too late. Mike was forever hugging us, and smiling when he did it, i know for one that i just accepted that it was going to happen. so Mike "The Machine" here is a big hug back. you were great and I am proud to say you were my friend.
Ramon Hernandez
AMR Yolo County Medic
Mike was such a sweet caring person. He always had a smile on his face and no matter how hard I tried he would never gossip or say a bad word about any of his fellow colleagues. To this day my two boys have nothing but fun loving memories about wrestling with Mike at the Yolo station. Any time I had to go to the station they would always ask if the guy who throws them around would be there. They would never miss a chance to wrestle down the machine. I will forever cherish these fond memories of Mike.
ReplyDeleteI have been on a hand-full of calls with Mike and each time I was relieved to see it was him who was there to take over. I always learned something from him each time. He was always relaxed and focused. My best memory of him was a few years ago my wife and I were in a return line with him at Walmart, two day after Christmas. As normal the line was long and only one person at the register so we all had time to talk about our families. He had this big bag of toys, and I asked him what with the toys? He stated " Those dam ungreatful kids!! I am returning all their gifts! " Amanda and I looked at each-other in shock and his face was stone cold straight. After letting us think the worst he busted out with a smile and said no that they got the kids so much stuff that they had forgot to give them all the gifts. He then told us that he had a great Christmas with his family! Thats the way I remember him. A joking family man. He will be missed by me and my family.
ReplyDeleteJeremy Bryson
Yolo Fire
The Machine was the man! He was a blessing and the most caring paramedic I've ever known. Whenever I got to work with Mike it was like a vacation day, for I had so much fun it wasn't work. His love of life and his profession will live on in me and many others. The Machine was given a talent from God that allowed him to make a lasting impression on anyone who crossed his path. The big smile, his loud voice and great sense of humor are unforgettable. I can close my eyes and picture him saying something that makes me cry from laughter. AMR and Yolo county have lost the best paramedic I ever met. I first met Mike when I was becoming an EMT and he was one of my instructors. He was hilarious in labs and also honest and real. He wasn't interested in being the toughest Emt with the best stories. He would help anyone that asked. He never had attitude or a chip in his shoulder. We talked about this many yeas later in Yolo after he became a medic. He told me he enjoyed being a Paramedic and was still working on becoming a PA. He didn't like interns because he loved his job and wanted the best care for his patients. He also told me he didn't care about being known as the best paramedic in Yolo county. This just confirmed my opinion that he was. Compassion, honesty, intelligent, comedian, clinician, are the words I would use to
ReplyDeletedescribe The Machine. My prayers go to Mike's family and friends. I know you are in heaven now and playing with a Doberman! I will never forget you.
Trevor , Placer County
The Mike Denman Memorial Food Drive should definitely be in order. Mike was the most selfless, friendly, positive, always smiling person you could know. A man’s man and a patients best friend. I had the pleasure to work with Mike during my Paramedic ride time. He made each day bright for me and those around him. God Bless you Mike, you will be missed by all that you touched.
ReplyDeleteJesse Hall,
YDFD
Mike was truly genuine. THe kind of guy you want to be around. If you were up, he was there to congratulate you. If you were down, he would lift your spirits. Mike and I had a conversation one day about how we were both struggling. He was having a hard time getting into PA school and I was struggling to find an FD job. I tried to be supportive of him, he wouldnt let me. All he kept saying was how great it is to be where we are and how we need to keep that drive inside of us and accomplish our goals. How much I deserve it and why any FD would be lucky to have me. I was lucky to have had you in my life. I will never forget that positive attitude that you brought everywhere with you. I truly admire you! We lost a good medic but an even greater man! You will be missed!
ReplyDelete--Brian Querner
Ex-Yolo Medic
Newark FD
If I hadn't met Mike my first day of Anatomy this past summer, I can honestly say I wouldn't have passed it. He gave me the support I needed, encouraging me throughout this semester, and providing the best entertainment anyone can ask for. No matter how stressful the class had become, he always had a smile, a good joke and encouraging words. He would send out emails to me and a couple of our friends that would have everyone laughing and looking forward to coming to class. I feel the loss without him here already, and feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know him. Mike, you will be missed.
ReplyDeleteWhere do I even begin with this man? Mike and I went to Paramedic school together and remained friends ever since. The first day of class I remember looking at him and thinking, who is this cat? He was cracking jokes and making up rhymes as the rest of us sat around like scared little sheep. I soon found out The Machine was a different breed. In class and in life he was a man that could defuse any situation and put people at ease. He had a genuine heart, quick wit and a smile that could light up a room. Just when the world needs more people like Mike, he is taken from us. You are gone but never forgotten, my "Brotha from another motha".
ReplyDeleteRIP Mike "The Machine" Denman
Kevin Neeley
CHP Flight Medic
Truer words have never been spoken & are heart felt.Michael, Son,Brother,& grand-son, Nephew & Uncle will always be remembered & certainly missed for the love & sweetness he gave to family & extended to others.As Auntie we had a special bonding when he was little & would look forward to coming into the living room sitting on the floor at my feet,I found my self rubbing his head & this became his quiet time .
ReplyDeleteI have a very touching little book that he worked on @ School ,& one day he came home from School & presented it to me.Very touching.Yes he has left beautiful memories behind.I'm over whelmed with sorrow ,sadness & tears as I close my heart felt remarks.Auntie Mae so sad . Remembering Michael always
I had the pleasure of getting to know Mike as a classmate in microbiology at Sac City. He was an amazing person, classmate, and friend. Knowing his occupation he kept me captivated with his stories of life-saving adventures....but what amazed me the most was how matter-of-fact and humble he was about his accomplishments.
ReplyDeleteI have to say people like Mike are dime a dozen. He was one of the most genuine, caring, passionate people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I just wish this special person had been a larger part of my life....but I am grateful that God felt that I was deserving enough to meet one of his angels......
Love ya Mike. You'll be missed my friend. It's never goodbye....just see you later. RIP my "Prince of Protozoa"
I first met Mike at Sacramento City College. We both had Microbiology, and we had just completed our final science class together in December. We were in the same study group for both classes we took together, and were ready to apply to our programs. I have only known him for about a year, but it feels like a lifetime. The reason being, you only come across a person that amazing once in a lifetime. From day one we were friends, and no matter what kind of day I was having, I knew once I sat down across the table from him, my day would be better. He always had the best jokes to cheer me up! He was brilliant, humble, genuine, caring, and witty... so that must be the reason God decided he was needed more in Heaven than on Earth.
ReplyDeleteMike, I know now you are smiling down on us all. While being a paramedic you were like a guardian angel for so many. Now you are a guardian angel for all of us. You will be missed more than you know.
My heart goes out to Mike's family and friends for this tremendous loss.
With Insurmountable Sadness,
Elizabeth Martin
Mike was my neighbor and a very private man. I only had the chance to talk with him a few times.I could see his devotion to Alma's boys and from what I have come to find out he was the real deal. The kind of man who we all thrive to be like. The world has lost a wonderful man. My thoughts & prayers got out to Alma, the boys and the Denman family.
ReplyDeleteRick Mortensen
I came across the is saying, that I would like to share....
ReplyDeleteLife is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So love the people who treat you right, forget about the ones who dont and believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance take it, if it changes your life, let it. Nobody said it'd be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.
Mike was my cousin, there was a big age difference but in my eyes we were the same age, I had to be about 7 years old at the time, he lived in Texas, one of our cousins registered my name for tickets to see The Harlem Globetrotters, which I won. So I found out and was excited and couldnt wait to get home to let Mike know, if he didnt know it he did by time I got home to tell him he was going with me to the game. I believe he was more excited than me. We had the best time that night and I really looked up to Mike he was like a big brother to me. Its been awhile since Ive seen him, I'm now 23 but I will never forget our game night out. He was awesome and my playmate at the time. He will be truly missed.
Love your cousin
Brittany
I will miss MY Machine. I called him that because it would embarrass him beyond belief! He was an amazing man and words can't describe the impact he has had on everyone's lives.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to share the first time I met Mike and the last conversation we had. The first time I met Mike, he and I worked a shift together in Yolo County. He had this HUGE book he brought to read. He read for hours! I finally asked him what he was reading..."The Medical Dictionary". "Really? Is that fiction or non-fiction? Who's the author?" I asked. He looked at me and laughed. He was actually ready the medical dictionary, page by page. Cracked me up!
The last conversation with Mike...he asked me for some winery recommendations. That's like asking me to pick my favorite pair of shoes! Can't just pick a dozen! So Rachel and I started naming wineries and he was writing down the names as fast as he could. Finally, I just looked at him and asked "Would you like me to just make an itinerary for you? I'll even recommend my favorite lunch location and a limo company. Drop my name and you'll get a discount." He smiled the biggest smile, laughed that awesome laugh of his and made me feel like that would be the best favor ever!
Well, Mike...I have that itinerary for you, but you'll be tasting the great wines of Heaven. So, do me the biggest favor of all and make an itinerary for me when we meet again.
Lisa D
Yolo County
I will never forget that first day I came to Yolo county and you welcomed me with your warm smile and cheerful personality.
ReplyDeleteMikey, you were one of those guys whom you can walk in to work and expect a smile from which would immediately cheer anyone up and brought sunshine to a dim day. You were always dancing and singin to his favorite music. I will miss you terribly and already do! You were an easy person to share feelings with and gave good advice! Take care buddy and I will see you soon!
Jennifer Carpenter
EMT
Yolo County
I remember the first time I talked to Mike on the phone, he had called in and told me his name was Horatio. While frantically looking on the schedule as not to embarass myself, I hear a giggle from Mike. I said your name is not Horatio is it? He says no and then proceeds to tell me his name. Ever since then, that was our joke. He ended up calling me Maria Maria. He would call me on the phone and say "listen to me" and then we would end up talking for a few minutes. I always hung up with a smile on my face. Mike was such a great person at work and outside of it. I have had many special times with him. I will miss him so much. He was truly an angel sent from above. I know he will be watching over all of us, making sure we are smiling and living our lives to the fullest. God bless your precious soul my friend. Until we meet again. RIP
ReplyDeleteIn Memory of Michael Denman
ReplyDeleteA MILLION TIMES
Michael, your years were not long
but yet you touched so many lives.
So many people needed you
and now so many have cried.
If love alone could have saved you
You never would have died.
In life you were dearly loved
In death you are loved still.
You hold a place in the hearts of
your family and so many more.
that no one else could ever fill.
It broke so many hearts to lose you.
A golden heart may have stopped
beating but God left your endearing
smile and our love for you
embedded in our souls.
Your Cousin in Houston
Dr. Mamie Jordan Hughes
I knew Mike from a class at Sacramento City College. We were in the same study group together. Mike was definitely one of a kind. He was just the best kind of person you could meet. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and just be the life of the room. His stories about his job and life were the best. Some were amazing and it inspired me to do something with my life, while others just made me laugh out loud. I always looked forward to his emails because they were always so hilarious. I would be at tired of laughing at the end of a lengthy one and be surprised by how witty he can be and how long the wit could last. Even if he was stressed or angered, he would still be smiling and make you feel better about yourself and the situation. You could tell that he always worked hard at everything and had a lot of empathy for others. He would have been one of the best PAs. He was the nicest, down to Earth person, and a great friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike's family and loved ones. I hope you rest in peace Mike, we'll miss you.
ReplyDelete-Sau Chui
I met Mike while working in the Woodland ER. He had a smile that was larger than life and an even bigger heart. I am thankful that I was lucky enough to know him. My prayers to Alma, the boys and the Denman family. Rest in peace.
ReplyDeleteChristie K.
I can vividly remember one instance during summer break. Mike had come to visit us in Phoenix,Az. He told me that he could make a "bomb". So, I helped Mike gather some common household items such as baking soda, vinegar, and a container with a lid. Mike began to mix the ingredients together in the container. After securing the lid on the container he began to shake the container vigorously. Run!, he shouted. We both bolted towards the front door. Needless to say, we didn't make it. The lid popped off of the container and white matter spewed everywhere!! Wow, was my initial thought as I looked in amazement! The feeling was only temporary as my mother walked in to see white splatters on the walls and the stinch of vinegar throughout the house!! LOL! We both knew we were in BIG TROUBLE!
ReplyDelete~ DaVina Denman Morris
Wow... This is very sad :(
ReplyDeleteJust by reading all the comments, I am not surprised to see how much he was loved.
I didnt get a chance to get to know him better in our Biology class last Fall, but I already liked his personality and his humor. He was so smart and funny.
He will truly be missed.
O'
I remember meeting Mike my first day at Sutter Davis, I was just starting as a Unit Secretary and he was working as an EMT with Vinnie Zasa. They were one of the best duo's at AMR. Mike was always so friendly and kind, we talked about our similar likes in music and our challenges with school. Mike had grown so much in front of all of our eyes. He was a fantastic Medic and could of done amazing things. He was taken way too soon and will be missed by many. I know all of us at SDH will miss getting report from "Mike Paramedic Extrodinare." I will miss you my friend, I can only hope you are at peace and in a better place.
ReplyDeleteLove
Michelle Perez
RN SDH ER
What can you say about someone that touched so many with that warm smile and sense of humor. Mike and I were classmates in BIO 431 last year. I will never forget Mike telling me that his brain checked out after the first hour of class, since there was so much information that we had to understand. I even remember him drawing in class(go figure). He was a wounderful person to know and a great classmate. I will miss you, but GOD knows what is best.
ReplyDeleteYour friend,
Tonita Speights
I first met Mike in the summer of 2009 when we were taking Anatomy 430 (and foolishly Microbiology at different schools). We used to laugh and joke across the classroom when we found something funny or, as only Mike could do, make a funny comment in a low voice and only he and I would get it. 431 last Fall semester was no different. Same seats across the room, still laughing at the inside jokes or trying to stifle a laugh when something was said and we both found it funny. I would just glance over at him and he would shake his head and start laughing. This really seems so surreal to me because he and I just talked a couple of weeks ago about the PA program interview at UC Davis and when his interview was scheduled. It's strange to be writing this instead of a congatulations text or call on getting the interview and, more importantly, getting into the program. Don't worry Mike, "I've got it under control and I'm holding down the fort..." I'm going to be the best Nurse Practioner I can be in both our names!
ReplyDelete- Khen Russell
Mike-
ReplyDeleteI should have told you this a long time ago. Its been a long time since we were partners but i still laugh about it. I should have drove the extra ten miles to meet you at the gym, i will forever regret that. I looked up to you and respected you and your standards more than any other care proveder i have ever met. You have truely set the bar high for a man and how he lives his life and loves his family. You have made me a better man, husband and paramedic. My life has been forever changed since i met you. Your legacy of how you greeted the world will live on through me as i wake up each day to confront the days challenges. I can't belived your gone, it was just a couple days ago i was thinking about how fun it would have been to go to pa school with you. My life path has been forever modified and i will never forget how you taught me to relentlessly care for my patients and i will always have you on my mind as i do.Good bye for now.
-Kirby
The South Union Church of Christ family in Houston, TX, where Mike's cousin, Sis. Mamie Hughes attends, will be praying for the family!
ReplyDelete-Bro. KC Copeland, Youth Minister
I remember meeting Mike in 6th grade. He sent his friend over to ask me one thing...his friend said "Mike thinks your cute and wants to know if you will be his girlfriend" I said "Why doesnt he come to me himself?" then I look way across the playground and check him out with his silly little grin..I turn to his friend and I say (as grown as a I can muster, with all my 10 year old womanly charm) "Ok." So we all go back to our classrooms and then second recess comes around and I think wow I have a boyfriend and he still hasnt said a single word. So yet again I go up to his friend and I say, "whats wrong with him, why doesnt he come over and talk to me?" the friend says "duh, because he is shy"...so i run off and go play and just before the end of recess i tell the friend "he still hasnt talk to me, so you tell him, unless he comes and talks to me before the end of recess, he can consider me no longer his girlfriend." you would think that would have brought him running but he never came and then we didnt go out again til sophmore year.
ReplyDeleteSo smart, so funny, so genuine, so loving, so caring and amazing man. My heart will never get over you. so to you he was the machine to me he was my first dumpee....hahaha no but really he was my first sweetheart.
Thank you Mike for being in my life and showing me what a gentleman is.
Every time I saw Mike in Biology class or studying in open lab for an exam I would always say " The super star have arrived" he truely was a super star with a heart of gold and will truely be missed and never forgotten.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I didn't know Mike very long he's someone I will always remember especially for his signature comment he yelled out in class "WHAT", would always make me laugh...My prayers go out to his family.
Kennita
I knew Mike for such a short time and still felt so moved by him. You do not meet very many people with such warmth,strength, and integrity. He was brilliant! I used to study with Mike in my biology class and my husband played music with him a few years back. He used to talk about his girlfriend so much and future plans and he was just so good and so solid. He could make anyone feel comfortable. I really hate this painful mystery and the overwhelming sting when a person leaves so soon. I can't stop thinking about his girlfriend, parents, sisters...all of the people who were blessed to knew him so well. I spent four months with this amazing person and I know that the pain I feel is a fraction of what those blessed with more time and intimacy with him must be enduring. He was such a bright light. I don't think I have ever met a more humble person. I believe in the spirit and I know that such an energy cannot be gone. My prayers and love go out to all those suffering this great loss. What a beautiful fellow!
ReplyDeleteTatiana LaTour
Mike
ReplyDeleteWhat a guy and I truly believe he has a job lined up in heaven. To the family I would like to say that your son was and still is a great person and props to you guys for raising a very kind hearted person. Everytime I saw him he would always talk about how much he loved his job and many times I told him to test for the fire department becuase he was well liked throughout the Davis Fire Dept. May God Bless the whole family and a big hug and kiss for MOMS.
Luis Parrilla
Davis Fire Dept.
From Vacaville
ReplyDeleteWe are truely sorry for the loss of a member of such a great family. He remains remembered and your loss is thought of frequently. Please take great care.
Dear Professor Love,
ReplyDeleteI just found out today that you died. Bro, I'm sorry we didn't stay in closer contact. I still have that voice-message you left on my phone, the one about how you remembered me when I was "just a Mexican guy from Oakland." You didn't leave you name. You said, "you know who this is!!" When I get too far from myself, I listen to it and remember, back in the days, we were innocent and so determined to be super-medics.
I remember your first day as an EMT! Black pants, white shirt... tearing up the transfers in Sacramento with Medic Ambulance. You looked nervous but never scared. Remember when you got written up for "excessive happiness"? They said your smiling must mean you're not taking your job seriously. What a laugh we had with that one!!
Remember when we rode 3-man on a BLS unit in Oakland? You, Mike O and me... one of my best days. I miss you, Bro. I was so proud of you when you got your Medic. We talked about me moving back to California and working together, dual-medic. I felt so far away when I called and told you Mike O died.
All that's left to say is Thank You. Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for being that comic relief when things felt overwhelming. I'm honored to have known you. I'm grateful for your memories.
Peace, Brother,
Frank Lopez
AMR - Maui County
p.s. remember why I always called you 'Professor Love'? You read those Covert Bailey books, ran all those miles and lost all that weight! You told me how great you felt and how so many girls were starting to notice you. You reminded me of 'Buddy Love' from the Dr. Dolittle movie! Right on, Professor Love! I'll always remember you.
There are few people in life that really touch your life in a special way....Mike was one of those friends...We worked together closely for a couple years, and kept in touch always. The laughter that he brought into my life was huge. His smile was warm and he was real. I will miss him always and hope that one day, when I pass, he will be there with a huge plate of Carolina's chips, cheese and salsa and a good joke for me. He was a good man, a great musician, a poet and best of all a good friend to so many people...My heart goes out to all friends and family. xoxo
ReplyDeleteI heard of your passing today and though its been over a year since u passed, ur lasting memories will remain with me and no one, not even death that snatched you away from us so quickly will take that away from me.
ReplyDeleteTerry ogundairo,
Former classmate.
Mike, You were one of the funniest and witty person I knew. In the short time that I knew you, I miss you man. I could only think about how much your family and close friends miss you. I hope you are in a better place.
ReplyDeleteIm reading these post tonight to remind me of your memories. I miss you my friend.
ReplyDeleteHuy