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One of the most awesome people in this world has died. Mike Trader, our horse trainer. He died suddenly from a heart attack.
He was more than our horse trainer. He was our friend. He made us his friends, not his clients, by his embracing personality, welcoming us with his warmth and personality, willing to offer a beer or a hug or a conversation just as much as a ride and instruction.
He was a talker! HUGE talker! You could hardly get him to stop long enough for you to leave, and it is almost impossible to imagine that he is not still talking. He was so much fun to be around.
He taught me to ride when I couldn’t even put a halter on a horse, when I was scared of horses. He taught Morgan to ride again after Patriot bucked her.
He taught me everything I know about horses, and he tried to teach me so much more than I could absorb.
He helped me overcome my fears and become a horse owner. I can’t imagine having taken on horses without his guidance and his mentorship and his friendship. When we had to make the hardest decision of all about Patriot, he was the one we turned to.
He loved people as much as he loved horses, and his advice came from the heart he had for both.
Mike, shooting off Zip’s back when she was at his farm. (Real bullets are not involved in this type of exercise. It’s intended as a test/demonstration of a horse’s training under saddle.)
I was so lucky to get to see Mike a few weeks ago when I was in his neighborhood to see the knives I was getting for the boys. I got to hug him one last time and see the new horse he was excited about. How he loved Rocky Mountain horses.
He was only 52. I know he’s left a big hole in the world for his wife and his children–and it’s a testament to what a great man he was that he will leave a hole for a lot of other people, too. He was so good with people, especially children and teens. Morgan just adored him. She was in tears last night. Me, too. We’ll miss you, Mike. Posted by Suzanne McMinn on January 31, 2013
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I’m so very sorry. Mike’s loss was a big one, for you and Morgan, for his family and friends and for your community. Please know that you are in my heart and have my deepest condolences. If you can, please express my condolences to Mike’s family too. Thank you for letting us get to know him.
Love, Amy Goldshine
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My dad was another who left a huge void in the world…
Peace and comfort to Mike’s family and friends.
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Sandy
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They are to be treasured like precious jewels.
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I, of course, read the story. I am so very sorry, Suzanne. Sorry for everyone who knew and loved him. Sorry for the animals he won’t get to train and grow to love. What a tragedy. And only 52 years old. I got tired of using the term “when it is your time, it is your time” years ago when people far too young to die, died anyway. It just doesn’t seem fair, does it?
Embrace the great memories you have of Mike. He did great work while here.
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Words fail. What a loss. My condolences to you all.
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Hugs
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don’t even know Mike. How very sad for his family and yours. Rest in peace Mike.
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