I heard of Mike's passing just after his funeral and have just seen the order of service now. Thank you for publishing his story, it is a beautiful piece. I knew Mike in the late 1990's as I worked as a young legal secretary in the neighbouring office. He was kindly and gentle and enjoyed a wonderful sense of humour. Mike (and some of his cases!) was instrumental in my growing interest in the law, in which I still practise now. Regards to his family and to Ann.

Mike, you had a wonderful heart. Your presence in court made difference to people. You will be truely missed 😢 May your soul rests in peace ✌️

We will never forget the kindness and outstanding work Mike did for us at our time of need. Competent, compassionate and a thoroughly good man. Deepest sympathy and aroha. 🌺

Sincere sympathy to Ann, Anthony,Fiona,Tomas,Ailis & family. Mike was a special person and the time we spent in Dublin, playing golf or walking the beach Kerry, meeting relatives in Cork and attending a pro-am golf outing in Adare where Mike was keen to follow the NZ golfer Michael Campbell were very memorable. Rest in peace Mike.

A huge tree in the forest has fallen. I will always visit the place where it stood. Paul Hautapu.

All my sympathy to you Ann, Anthony, Fiona and your family at the death of Mike. A sad sad day. Mike and Ann very kindly lent me their house at Tangimoana, no rent, ages ago when I was in the middle of shifting from Palmerston North to Auckland. Such thoughtful generosity is always remembered. Mike was a good friend to my son Karl and all of Anthony's friends. He had the ability to span the difference in the generations. Much love to all.

Dear Michael, I will miss you so much as I did even when I shifted away. I will miss sitting across from a dinner table with you and Anne and my Dad John. We had fabulous conversations and lots and lots of laughs and I will never forget them. Your intelligence was immense annd sometimes I felt stupid being in the company of someone like you. But you were so humble and I love you to pieces. Thank you for all your help over the years and it has been my privilege that my Dad introduced you to me and we became great friends. Your work here is done and you worked so hard. Fly high preciious man and I will see you one day soon. Love forever. Sandie Garrett.

Our hearts go out to Ann and family on the sad passing of cousin Mike. We feel blessed to have met him on his visits to Ireland. We fondly remember his calm considered words. Mike was so knowledgeable yet unassuming and he had a lovely dignified manner. He and Ann were great company during our happy times together. May happy memories of Mike shine bright through your sorrow and light your way. Pat, Sheila and Alyssa O’Regan Co Cork Ireland

for Mike B I cannot recall the last time I saw him, and this alone undoes me. How could I have let so much time pass? Believing, believing that he would always be there. A cornerstone, I have seen him with a child’s eye — fear and admiration mingled — But how he made me laugh! His generous embrace when the Gods played their vicious hand. Memories that have sustained me; shadowed me across time. It is hot today, the heat shimmering on the road below. The sky is fading blue, fading white to the edges. A Currawong calls from the listless summer-tired tree behind the apartment. I can see the faint, faint filament of a spider’s web flowing fluid from its anchor point on the balustrade. With the news of his death the season has turned. Let it be enough that I can say he was a good man.

A truly wonderful being with a heart that welcomed everyone . Loved my time knowing him, and will never forget 'away day' trips in his car with George and 'Fins'. RIP Michael, the world is a poorer place without you.

I am very sad to hear about Mike's passing in my eyes he was one of greatest person's i knew i was a client of Mike's and every time he represented me i felt very safe and humbled I believe Mike was the best lawyer palmerston north ever had cheers mate your friend John Dixon