My deepest sympathy to the Byron family.  I was so fortunate to have known and worked with Mike as a public health nurse many years ago.  His compassion and uncanny sense for finding a abetter path for young people were a great lesson to me.  We were all blessed to have him in our lives.

You have my deepest sympathy on your loss of Mike.  He had a great personality and was fun to work with and I believe, always wanted to do what was the right thing for the student.  Bruce Springsteen may have said it best, when he sang, "When they made you brother, they broke the mold."  May your memories console you and provide light moments to you all.  Lucy Hayes

Byron Family, 

   I was sorry to hear of Mike's passing away shortly after diagnosis. I can only imagine how difficult this must be shortly after Bob's passing away.

   Mike gave me a ride back to St. Teresa's my freshman year. He was so polite and friendly and really did not know me. I course I knew him as Suzanne's older brother. Riding with someone's older brother was pretty cool in those days!

   I hope you find peace and acceptance somehow. The obituary was beautifully written. What a caring, giving man. Bless You.  Sincerely, Kim Kastner Charlebois 

Jeanne and family,

We are sad to hear of Mike's death.  We have many wonderful memories of the Byrons from the years we lived in Rochester, MN.  Mike was talented in many ways.  Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.  Education has lost a master teacher.

Love and prayers,

Jim and Carol

San Clemente, CA

I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing.  I worked with him for a few years at the Rochester Schools and just loved him.  He was so passionate and kind, not to mention very funny.  He will be greatly missed.  My prayers are with your family.

In memory of Mike Byron, the Bahá'ís of Rochester have made a contrbution to the Boys and Girls Club of Rochester, Inc.

My sympathies to the Byron family - I had the privilege of working with Mike at the Sheriff's Boys Ranch nearly 40 years ago.  He was the counselor that the boys sought out for his calm guidance, quick smile and encouragement.  Years later, we interacted at several education focused meetings in the Rochester community.  Mike was a gift to so many.  May you hold onto the good memories at this great time of sorrow. 

Blessings - Colleen Landherr Maddox, Community & Youth Program Director, Rochester Community and Technical College 

To all the Byron Family,  I am very sorry for your loss-it was a joy knowing and working with Mike at JM-I hope you find comfort in knowing he made a great impact on many young peoples lives, characters and futures.

The Demydowich Family

My sympathies to the Byron family:

     Just out of college, Mr. Byron was my Great Books teacher at St. George High School in Lansing, Iowa. Even in his first year of teaching, he was an inspiring, kind, and patient teacher.  He was not much older than most of us in the senior class.  Several girls did have crushes on him.  He burned lots of midnight oil in preparing for his classes as the light in his second floor classroom was on quite late at night.  He was very knowledgeable and prepared us very well for college.  His congenial demeanor and pleasant ways made him a favorite!  Now years later, I teach with Sue in Lake City.  I am now convinced that all those wonderful traits are just the Byron way, as Sue shares that same work ethic, sensitivity for others, and cheerfulness. My brother Dutch worked with Mr. B. at JM; my sister-in-law Kristie worked with Jeanne at Methodist.  Our family paths have crossed.  The sadness of his death makes it hard to focus on the joy of his life.  Grief is the price you pay for love.  There is an old Irish saying...Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal.  May memories bring you comfort.  Sending prayers,

                                                                                        Mary (Heiderscheit) Orthaus

To Mike's family: My deepest sympathy to your family and Mike's Mother and siblings. The McGuire's have been friends to the Byron family for many years. May God bless all of you at this time.

Joan

Jeannie:

My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this horrid time.  I'm so sorry to hear about Mike.  I haven't worked with you since the Transplant days, but wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers.  God be with you and your family and help you through this.  Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.  Thank you for making this available on-line, as I wouldn't even know where to mail a card to.

Sincerely,

Sheila Buehler (formerly Sheila Berns)

Dearest Jeanne,

I am so saddened by the news of her husband. May your  love and warm memories offer  strength to you and your family during this difficult time.

Sincerely, Randi Hoffmann

Dear Jeannie and family,

All of us at the office are so saddened by the lose of Mike. We extend our deepest sympathies and send our thoughts and prayers your way. We wish you well at this time. Mike will be missed.

My deepest sympathy my prayers are with you.

To the family of Michael Byron,

We are long-time (retired) teachers in the Rochester Public Schools who worked with Mike at different points in our careers.  Mike was very professional and yet an administrator who cared deeply for staff and students on a personal basis. 

A special greeting to Angela from Madame Rosemary Most.

A very great loss; our condolences to all of you.

Carl & Rosemary Most

Dear Jeanne, Angie, Keith, Sara & Jada,

My heart is broken as I think of the lost you have suffered with the passing of this great man.  Mike was my first "friend" and our friendship was always treasured.  Our friendship started with our families, but was held together with respect and honesty.  That is truly a memorable track of 62 years.  We might not see each other for years, and then pick-up our conversation of laughs, seriousness, stories and so-forth within the minute.  I cannot properly express to you, in words, what he friendship meant to me.  No man held my admiration more than Mike Byron.  As tears roll down my cheeks and my aching heart prays for your loving memories, I extend my sympathy.

May God bless you,

Jeff Conway

My heartfelt sympathy goes to Mike's family. I had the privilege of working with Mike on several committees, etc. while working with the Rochester Public Schools. He was a kind, caring man who had a passion for working with youth. He will be terribly missed.

Dianne Dodge

Dear Jeanne and family,

I did not know Mike, but I know his Aunt Peg very well. She is a cherished friend here in Seattle, and I am so saddened to learn of the loss of this man who meant so much to her and countless others. I have read the tributes, which attest to his professional accomplishments and his love for his family and friends. Please know that all of you will be remembered in my prayers as you mourn the loss of this wonderful man.

Helen Goehring 

Dearest Jeanne & Family,

I am so sad to hear about Mike's passing.  What a terrible shock for your family.  I know that it has been a while since I saw you last, but I have only wonderful memories of a very sweet couple.  I remember Mik'e great sense of humor and I know from reading the condolences that he will be missed by many people.  My heart goes out to you and your family, and I want you to know that in the days and months that lie ahead I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

With Love,

Deb, Teryl, & Tyler McKay

My condolances and sympathy to the family of Mike Byron.  I remember Mike as one of the most"honest" and caring administrators I have worked with (JM 1996-96 and Century).  I enjoyed his sense of humor and he was always patient.

                                                                                                                  Sincerely,

                                                                                                                  Chuck Handlon

My condolesances and prayers are with Mike's family. As you well know Mike was a truely wonderful, always that welcoming smile.  I met Mike when he worked with juvenile offenders and my children had the honor of having him as their school social worker at Willow Creek and then as their assistant principal at John Marshall. It was obvious Mike loved working with the kids and was always willing to think outside the box when dealing with issues that arose. 

You are in my prayers

Marje Weatherly

Jeanne and the Byron family and friends,

We were very saddened to hear of the death of Mike. However, reading all of the wonderful things folks have to say about Mike is inspiring. What a legacy of love Mike has left all of us. I worked with Mike over several years as a co-worker at ISD 535 and he surely was a special man. Reading all of the kind remarks from former students and co-workers tells you of the wonderful life he led. He was a kind, gentle man and an inspiration for all of us still working with youth. I know  I will miss his great smile and sense of humor. In sadness, Scott Kerl

My daughter broke down and cried when I told her about Mr. Byron. She said he helped me so many times Mom! She graduated over 4 years ago. To leave an impact on someone's life is a tremendous acomplishment and she will never forget him. I too am sad to hear of his passing. He was intsrumental in helping me with my daughter when she was going through tough times. God has a very specail place for him. Our deepest sympathy for the loss of such a wonderful man,

My daughter broke down and cried when I told her about Mr. Byron. She said he helped me so many times Mom! She graduated over 4 years ago. To leave an impact on someone's life is a tremendous acomplishment and she will never forget him. I too am sad to hear of his passing. He was intsrumental in helping me with my daughter when she was going through tough times. God has a very specail place for him. Our deepest sympathy for the loss of such a wonderful man,

My thoughts and prayers are with your family.  It's always difficult to lose a loved one.

I'm not surprised to read the condolences of all the youth Mike reached during his long career.  I worked with him for "field experience" credits through RCC in 1978.  He was providing the youth services program at that time under community corrections.  His compassion and rapport with kids has stayed with me throughout my 30+ year career in probation- especially at the time I started out as a juvenile probation officer.  I still remember some of the things he shared with me on what to expect while dealing with young people.

It is with great sadness that I hear of his passing.  He has left a legacy in each life he has touched over the years.  May those memories and the dear Lord grant you comfort in the days to come.

Terryl Arola - Pine County Probation Director

To Michael Byrons Family. He was a Great Person and a Friend to our son from Boys' Ranch and Rochester Schools. He will be miss by all. Our Condolences To You. Barb and Jim Ellsworth.

Dear Byron Family,

My deepest sympathy for you at this most difficult time. Mike was a colleague of mine many years ago when he was doing social work for the Rochester Public Schools and I was an EBD teacher.  Working on a team with Mike was so enjoyable as he infused humor and yet great respect for everyone. He always, always advocated for the kids! Please know that I will keep Mike and your family in my prayers.

Mary Jo Westra

Jeanne,

I am so sorry for your loss, I know these words seem hollow, and that your pain and grief are so great right now.  I hope you know that all who love and care about you, are lifting you up in prayers for comfort, and strength.  I will be praying for you and your family during this time of sadness and grief.  I remember the days on 10-2 when you took me in, and helped me learn a new set of skills, your caring and kindness has stayed with me, and I think often of my "cranberry buddies".  Let them support you and help you in the coming days.

I didn't know that Mike taught at JM, as an alumni (class of '82) I saw many familiar names on the guest book as well.  Once a Rocket, always a Rocket. 

May God bless you and your family,

Sincerely,

Ann Meyer, RN

Dear Byron Family,

I am deeply saddened by the loss of your beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. I knew Mike as Mr. Byron back in 1994 when Angie and I became friends in middle school. I admired Mr. Byron because he not only was a wonderful father to all of his kids, but every time I visited Angie after school he made me feel like I was part of the family. Mike was there for me and for my sister during the time Michelle went through Que mo therapy and always had an optimistic thought of support for us. He truly was one outstanding musician. I remember hearing him play musical instruments in the basement and I thought that the Byron family was just like the Partridge Family, but only a lot more rock and roll.

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

With much love,

Loury (Diaz) Trader

My sympathy to the Byron family

Mike was a class guy. The world is a better place because of Mike!!!!!! Enjoyed visiting with Mike at the class reunion in June. Rest in peace Mike.

Gary Gallagher

classmate at Sacred Heart

My sympathy to the Byron family

Mike was a class guy. The world is a better place because of Mike!!!!!! Enjoyed visiting with Mike at the class reunion in June. Rest in peace Mike.

Gary Gallagher

classmate at Sacred Heart

Dear Kaye, Jeff, and Jeanette for the Byron Family,

We are deeply saddened to learn of Mike's passing.  The Oelkes will always remember him as a caring, involved person in Rochester, especially with School District 535 when Matt was at John Marshall High School.  It was a real comfort to us as parents to know that Mike was near as a go-to person for Matt,  Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.  May your great memories of Mike and the joy he brought others bring you Peace during this difficult time.

With Sympathy,

Linda and Bill Oelke

I was sad to read in the PB that Mike had died (on my birthday).  I am a retired Rochester teacher, spending most of my 34 years at Longfellow School.   I liked Mike.   I admired him for his work, for his help wherever needed, and for his never-ending sense of humor.   I'm sad that he didn't get to enjoy retirement years, but I understand he had a full life of being loved and loving others.   God Bless Mike!

Michael was a great man.

In elementary school I remember having some problems.  I cannot remember them specifically but for whatever reason, and not a coincidence I might add, I remember conversations that we had.  He was wonderful.  He helped me a lot.  In those formative years who knows what kind of empowerment like that had on the rest of my life. 

He raised three great kids.  They have been good friends to me and my brother and sister.  And I know that even though I am far away, and have not seen them in years, I know we will always be friends.

Jeanne, Angie, Kieth, Sara.  I am so sorry.  You and Michael will be in my prayers. 

Dear Jeanne & Family,

I am shocked and sadened to read of Mike's passing. He touched my life in the summer of 83 or 84 when he hired me on as a Summer Project Supervisor when working with kids in the system. After the Summer was over Mike told me that others had been hesitant to hire a one-arm guy as the Supervisor. But after the season he was "glad to stick it to them" and report that my crew had the lowest turnover of any that year.

Being born without my right arm and no sight in my right eye, Mike hired me for my ABILITIES and didn't look at my DISABILITIES. His confidence in me that year has grown and grown to help me be the successful person I am today here in Phoenix, AZ and assisting others with disabilities to live independntly in the community.

Mike was an honest straight shooter and always treated me right, all the way up until 3 years ago when I last saw him when I attended my niece's graduation ceremony from JM. He remembered me and was sincerely glad to see me.

Through our lives we are never quite sure when or how we impact the lives of others. I can honestly tell you that Mike CONTINUES to impact lives through me in AZ and through countless others!!!!

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of your loss. God's Peace be with you all.

Darrel Christenson,     d.christy@live.com

Jeanne and Family,  So sorry to hear about Mike's passing.  Marty and I will keep you and Mike in our prayers. 

Our Sincerest Sympathy.

Marty & Sandy Mcfarlin

Jeanne,  I'm so sorry hear about the loss of your husband.  He sounds like he had as big of a heart as you do.  My thoughts are with you and your family.

I was deeply saddened by the news of Mr. Byron.  I was one of the many students that had the privilege (well, not at the time:) of visiting his office, during my trying times at JM; but, I never minded.  He was always willing to listen and sincerely did anything and everything in his power, to help me succeed--which I did!!  Tomorrow is my 10 year class reunion and we will definitely take a moment to honor him, as I know I am not the only one who he has influenced--a really cool man was lost!!

My condolences to you and your family...you are in my thoughts!!

Sincerely,

Danielle Davis

I worked with Mike Byron at JM for 11 years and I was always struck by his special touch with kids.  Even my own had a few chats with Mike.  He was gentle, kind and compassionate.  I did not know he was ill and so am still comprehending this.

I am so sorry for your loss.  First your husband and father and now Mike.  He loved taking care of his granddaughter too I know.  He will be greatly missed.  What a very special man. 

Dear Byron Family--

What a shock to hear of the passing of your beloved husband, father, and grandfather. I worked with him at John Marshall for several years. He was the kind of assistant principal who made you feel appreciated, welcomed, and totally supported. I cherish my memories of him and hope that I can somehow emulate the kindness he showed to both staff and students. He had a big heart and shared it most generously. 

God bless you at this time of sorrow and reflection. 

Love,

Ann Eldredge

My heart and prayers go out to Mr. Byron's family. He encouraged me to always do my best no matter what and that has always stuck with me. He was there for me during the a few of the roughest years of my life. He will always hold a special place in my heart and I will be forever grateful. May you rest in peace and may God bless your soul. 

Jeanne & family, I am so sorry to hear that Mike had passed away. Please know that I am thinking of you during this difficult time. I am working this weekend, so will be unable to attend the services. Love to you--Jane

Jeanne And Family,

Gosh, had little idea Mike was so sick. Please accept our condolences and PLEASE let us know if we can do anything

Richard, Mary & Lacey Freytag, Rich's Southside Service

Jeanne,

I only see you every once in a while in passing at Mayo these days, but I fondly remember my time on 10-2 working with you.  I am thinking and praying for you and your family during this difficult time.  I am hopeful the good memories of Mike and time with family will help carry you through this time of grief. 

Lynn (Whiteman) Alcock

Jeanne and family,  I was shocked and saddened to hear that our friendly, humorist, generous and well respected Mike had passed away.  I worked with him at JM and no one can possibly say anything but good about Mike.  We shared some wonderful times at staff outings, especially when Mike and his fellow band members played for us. He was great with kids, staff and parents. God has chosen a wonderful person to be on his staff, but we will truly miss him.

That smile, that laugh, that wonderful man.  I'm deeply stunned and so saddened by the loss of Mike.  What a blessing that for so many years he was able to give so much to so many - students and adults.  We are better because we were fortunate to have crossed paths with him.  My sincere condolences to his family.

Dear Jeannie,

My deepest sympathy to you as you mourn the loss of Mike. I am so saddened to hear this tragic news. Mike taught me to look for the good "inner being" of students when we worked together at Central. Most of those students didn’t want to be in our classroom. Somehow Mike, with his sense of humor and a smile that lit up the room, taught and encouraged them to be the best they good be. Working with Mike was a delight and an adventure. He taught me a lot about accepting people where they are with flaws and broken spirits. Mike will be forever remembered for his humbleness and the many lives he touched including my own. The angels in heaven are welcoming Mike among their ranks with great joy. May our Lord bless you with His peace, strength and love as you grieve the loss of your beloved husband.

Peace and Love to you, Sandy Wagner

Jeanne,

You and your family are in thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. 

Jackie Johnson

Jeanne, I was so sorry to hear about Mike. You always had a twinkle in your eye when you talked about him, obviously loved him very much. I will be thinking about you.

Michelle

Dear Jeanne,

I am so sad to hear that Mike has passed away.  Our days at Central working together were interesting to say the least.  Mike taught me so much about finding the "inner being" of the students that came to our room every day, most of them not wanting to be there.  He had a calling to bring the best out of everyone.  I am so blessed to have known Mike.  His presence in my life has made me a better person.  May our Lord bless you Jeanne as you mourn the loss of Mike.  He will be missed forever, but not forgotten.  I will always remember his great sense of humor and his smile that lit up the room.  The angels are rejoicing to have Mike join their ranks.

My deepest sympathy to you, your children and little grandaughter,

Sandy Wagner

I taught with Mike many years ago at Pinewood School in Rochester.   I'm brother in law to Annie McLoone who went to school with Mike.   We shared some funny stories about Annie.   As I remember, Mike had a daughter that attended Pinewood while I was a third and fourth grade teacher.   She, as I remember, was a really terrific kid and if my memory has served me correctly, my sincere condolences to her and the rest of Mike's family. 

Jeanne: We were very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Jeanne, Keith, Angie, Sara

I'm so sorry for your loss.  I am in Colorado and will not be able to attend the visitation or funeral.  Wish I could hug all of you.

Love,

Richard Klann

This was a great man. He loved many. He gave his everything to anyone he would meet. He touched many lives and made a difference in thousands. HE IS GOING TO BE MISSED! I am so sorry for his family's loss. May God help them throught this time and for the years to come.

Rest in PEACE MIKE BYRON.

Sherry

To all family,

I worked with Mike for many years at JM and enjoyed his sense of humor and smile almost every day.  His unfailing support of staff and students will never be forgotten.  I am glad I had a chance to touch base with him again in the spring and catch up.  I am so sorry for your - and our - loss.

Ellen Harford

Mike was a great guy.  I worked with him at the district for many years.  He will be missed.

Jeanne and family,

Dave and I were shocked and so very sorry to hear of Mike's death. Dave worked with Mike at JM so has many fond memories of him. I will always remember him as a very funny, jovial, caring and kind man. To say he will be missed is such an understatement.

Our prayers are with you.

Dave and Judy Daniels 

After working daily with Mike in the Attendance Office at JM for a couple years, it is hard to imagine the number of heavy hearts at hearing this sad news.  He touched so many people in so many different ways and really made a huge difference in the lives of many, many people....students, parents and staff!  Mike was an AWESOME man with a heart of GOLD!

I didn't know Mike well, having met just a few times through Jeanne at work. He was a kind man and will be missed by many. I continue to think of you, Jeanne, and family.

Dear Jeanne and family,  I am shocked to read of Mike's death.  My thoughts of Mike are always of that big wide grin and friendly words.  Great neighbor, loving dad, cool yellow car, dedicated Pinewood parent (you too, Jeanne).  May lots of loving memories give you smiles and warm feelings.  The tributes to Mike show what a wonderful man he was!  Our thoughts and prayers to all of you.  Joleta and Wayne

i am deeply sadden by our loss... mr. byron tried to hold each our hands through out high school so that we are a better person in this society. he cared about each of us enogh to ask why and how. he didnt care what color we were or where we came from. he only wanted to know where we were going...he was and still is a special person. i know that he is in a great place now. we will miss you and thank you for all of your hard work.

I am saddened with this news.  I will always remember Mike's kind and gentleman ways...and that was in grade school and high school. We laughed a lot. My condolences to Mike's family.

Margi

Classmate at Sacred Heart

My condolences to Mr. Byron's family. 

I graduated from JM in 1997 and I spent more than my fair share of time in his office. He was tough, but as long as you were honest, he would help cut you a break.  His laugh was infectious and I remember knowing how much trouble I was in on how much he smiled. 

Mr. Byron was a wonderful and fair man who touched more lives than his family could know.

I'm extremely sorry for your tremendous loss. I will be praying for his family.

With love,

Bethany (Hofstad) Kennedy

To be honest I am still in shock and words are so terribly inadequate right now. However, I hope you all are finding comfort in the messages in which Mike touched other people's lives - those are amazing legacies and show a life that was lived well. We should all aspire for such a meaningful existence, however short it may be.  
I love all you guys so very very much, my second family!!
-Layla and Eva

Dear Jeanne, Angie,(Marci), Keith, Sara and Jada:

We don't know where to begin, but we are heartbroken to hear of your loss of Mike.  He was a lovely person and we are so sorry for your great loss. Words are never enough, but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are glad that we were able to meet and spend time with you both on your two trips to see Angie & Marci here in Nova Scotia.  Take care, Jeanne and family.  We will be talking to you soon.

Love and best wishes

Ann and Doug

Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.  Maynard and I were fortunate enough to work at the Sheriff's Boy's Ranch when Mike was there and then I have had the privelege of working with him with Rochester Schools until he retired.  What a wonderful man filled with such a big heart and love of kids.  I was always struck by his ability to see the good in every student he came in contact with and his amazing gift of humor. 

I have such great memories of Mike when I went to Central Junior High and credit him with helping me through a big transition in my life.  He was a great person, mentor and a friend.

We share a common birthday December 19.

With Love and Respect always,

Chris

Mike was a wonderful mentor and colleague. He had a gift for cutting throught the red tape and bureaucracy and doing what was needed and right for kids. Most importantly to me, Mike was a good friend and I will cherish the times we spent together.

Jeannie, Angie, Keith, Sara, and Jada - my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mr Byron was one of the best men, teacher and friend i had the privledge to have during my time at JM high school. He took me off a bad path and sent me out with a second chance to change my life for the better. i wouldnt be the person i am today without his influences. Always in my thoughts Mr. B.....and i know i never said it then but Thank you...from the bottom of my heart Thank you.

My thoughts are with his family and friends.

My condolences on your loss.  Mr Byron was an inspiration to me at John Marshall.  He will be truly missed. He is part of the reason that I stayed at John Marshall.  I last saw him about a year ago or so. He was walking down Broadway, here in Rochester. He was searching for a jewely repair shop to fix his wedding band.  I hope he found it.  RIP   Kevin Coles  Hall Monitor at JM 

Oh Mike! I'm so sad to hear the news. My deepest sympathies to the family.

Mike Byron: a beautiful boy and a beautiful man.

-Annie, Waseca Sacred Heart classmate, 

Winona, MN

Mike truly had a big heart for all students, but especially for students who had tough things to deal with in their young lives.  Students knew that he cared about them and what was going on in their daily lives.  Mike took the time to build relationships with students, by being a great listener and giving wonderful feedback.

Words cannot express how much respect I have for Mike Byron or how much I will miss his great sense of humor and smile.

I will always cherish the years we worked together at JM and became friends.

Great man that always had a heart in my rebel teen days always saw in me what I didn't see in myself! Thank you Mr. Byron! may he R.I.P.

I am deeply saddened by Mr. Byron's passing... He was one of the best teachers I have ever had in my entire school career. A caring and dedicated teacher, he was there when high school became tough for me. I will be forever greatful! RIP Mr. Byron...

To the Byron family, we are sorry to hear about your loss.  Mike was a great friend to so many people and his passing is tragic.  May a perpetual light shine on Mike and the Byron family. God Bless

Mark Kuisle - former administrator at John Marshall