Autumn (by Michael Paoli)
Would that I were a leaf
To be borne up by Heaven's breath
Where I would like a dervish dance
And in crackling notes of laughter sing
Until at last I fall
Upon my lover's snowy breast
Artist, musician, poet, librarian; Michael was brilliant and full of life, when he entered a room you could feel something magical might happen, it was as if the circus had come to town and the elephant parade was about to begin. He was a wonderful brother and a loyal friend; he will be desperately missed by all that knew him.
Mike's great passion was music; he played in several bands and performed his songs at venues all across the valley. He loved to be in front of an audience and he could hold a crowd with his stage presence and dynamic performance. Mike graduated from the University of Utah with degrees in anthropology and sociology. He continued his education at University College Dublin in Dublin, Ireland where he completed a Master's degree in library science. He worked for many years at the main branch of the Salt Lake City library in the circulation and reference departments.
These few paragraphs cannot possibly capture the full breadth of Mike's life, those that knew him are fortunate to have memories of their time together.
Mike is survived by his sister Michele, brothers Brian and Bruce, Uncle Lucky and Aunt Leona, his beloved dog Jack, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends and bandmates that loved him dearly and unconditionally. He was preceded in death by his mother Bebe, father August, and younger brother Duane.
The family would like to thank Michael's community of friends for their support, compassion, and help during this sad time. Everyone can share their thoughts and memories of Mike on this website or on Mike's personal Facebook page where they can also find additional information regarding the date, time, and place for a celebration of Mike's life.
