Michael "Mikie" Wayne Kennedy Jr., 19, passed away on Thursday, June 29, 2006, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. "He was taken from us unexpectedly, doing what he loved, riding his motorcycle."

Mikie was born on Nov. 22, 1986, in Fort Levenworth, Kan., to Michael and Charlene (Koontz) Kennedy. Mikie was raised in Columbia Falls, attending school there, but graduating from Laser School in Kalispell in 2005.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends, father and uncle Adam. Hunting was a family love, with Mikie trying his hardest to get the biggest buck. His passion was his friendships. He was the life of the party. Mikie enjoyed spending his time with his girlfriend, Michelle, who stayed his support through all.

Mikie was working hard trying to start his own life. He worked for Classic Tile and was trying different roads to help him lead his way. He was such a kind and lovable person.

"His memories will forever be with us. We will always hear his voice, see his silly faces and feel his touch deep within us. Mikie's love and strength for friends and family will keep us strong. We remember Mikie as our blessed son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend."

Mikie is now a guardian angel to his parents, Michael Sr. and Charlene; two sisters, Kassie and Amanda; his girlfriend, Michelle Downing; his paternal grandparents, Wayne and Deanna Kennedy of Columbia Falls; maternal grandparents, Linda Duff and Galen Koontz of Kansas City; his great-grandmother, Vi Price; two aunts, Michelle Albin and husband, Adam, of Columbia Falls, and Tammy Thompson of Kansas City, Kan.; two uncles, Galen Koontz and wife, Donna, and C.C. Koontz; cousins, Russell and Jason Albin; and countless friends.

Funeral services for Mikie will be held 10 a.m. Monday, July 3, at the New Covenant Church on Birch Grove Road, near the old Costco store; burial will follow at St. Richard's Catholic Cemetery in Columbia Falls. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, July 2, in the Johnson Mortuary Chapel.

The family suggests memorial gifts or donation be sent to 111 Fourth Ave. West, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Mikie's family.