2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June

Subject: Obit: Micca
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 May 20 - 08:09 PM

You made me smile so many times, but all I can do now is cry.
I'll miss you, Micca.
-Joe-

Micca at his best: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sIULcU-GGg

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: Rapparee
Date: 18 May 20 - 08:16 PM

NO!!!!!

What happened? I thought he was doing better.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: olddude
Date: 18 May 20 - 08:24 PM

Oh no no no..... I am so sorry to read this news

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 18 May 20 - 08:36 PM

I just saw Terri's Facebook post. What a deep, deep loss.

Dan

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: Lighter
Date: 18 May 20 - 08:36 PM

Me too. What a Mudcat stalwart. Condolences to all.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: Jeri
Date: 18 May 20 - 08:51 PM

Last I heard he was in hospital, and awaiting a CT scan. Then this.
He was such a huge presence, and so much folkloric bindings of us on Mudcat. Micca and the kilt, "...and the horse", and he treated Tom (Curmudgeon), Linn (Bat Goddess), and I to a really nice dinner, with really nice wine, when he came over here. Great conversation, and the man wrote some lovely songs and poems.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: GUEST,keberoxu
Date: 18 May 20 - 09:01 PM

Not knowing Micca,
I just saw a photograph of him online:
he looks like
he just stepped out of the pages of
Tolkien's Middle Earth -- mythic.

I am sorry for the loss for those who loved him so much.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: sian, west wales
Date: 18 May 20 - 09:17 PM

I am ... shocked. What a small word for the passing of such a mighty spirit.

Rest well, Micca.

sian, west wales

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: ClaireBear
Date: 18 May 20 - 09:28 PM

Oh Micca, I am standing at the deserted dock, still waving my tear-spotted hankie as your ship nears the bright horizon of the Outermost West. I can't sing right now, or I would sing the Rowing Song for you. I'm not doing words very well right now, either, but someday I will send you another poem.
May you have only happy wanderings from now on, Travel Gnome. You will be much missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: GUEST,SINS
Date: 18 May 20 - 09:48 PM

I am heartbroken. We spoke earlier in the week. Rest easy, my beautiful friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 18 May 20 - 09:54 PM

Liz the Squeak here, rather than Manitas who has just gone to bed for the third time tonight....

He was taken into hospital on Sunday morning, having suffered, we think, a fall on the stairs. He was comfortable yesterday evening, and at lunchtime today, was eating lunch, drinking tea and preparing for a CT scan and a consult. However, I (being on his 'to call' list as closest in proximity) got a call at 22.30 that he'd suffered what they suspected was a heart attack, and to come in. In the 40 or so minutes it took me to get there, he went.

I sat with him, told him of all the love, worldwide that was being sent for him, and helped the nurses wrap him close, for the last time.

Here's to you, you old bastard.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: GUEST,Philippa
Date: 18 May 20 - 10:00 PM

sorry to read this, met both Micca and Liz at a mudcat gathering in Portaferry years back.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: meself
Date: 18 May 20 - 10:06 PM

Another of the good ones gone. RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: GUEST,Julia L
Date: 18 May 20 - 10:18 PM

Unbelievable. I was just trying to reach him to let him know that the lovely poem he wrote for me is to be featured on a program about monarch butterflies accompanied by my tune "Migration". The tune "arrived" as I sat and played on rocks near the sea surrounded by butterflies. We had an exchange about it and this is what he wrote-
beautiful words from a beautiful soul

Monarch Music by Micca Patterson (written for Julia Lane, August 2019)

A sea girt headland in Eastern Maine
above the waters chilly reach
There sits, and plays, with skills arcane,
a solitary harpist on the beach
She plays and sings an ancient song
of Celtic lands; far, far away places
for which the heart does long,
the loss of things now passed away

Sudden, out of still warm autumn air,
as sudden as an eastern gale,
comes the fairest of the fair-
a cloud of Butterflies, gold and pale

Like Kings and Queens made a
Progress around about ancestral lands,
These Monarchs richness does impress
along these chilly ocean sands
and now with magic all's transformed;
approaching winter stayed its run
Migrating butterflies have swarmed
and paused to hear her play her tune

Transformed by Mother Nature's hand
we find, for a brief moment there,
we caught a glimpse of Fairy land
its Music floating in the air

Now, fuelled by milkweed, off they float
To far off Mexico's warm clime
Through many a day each jewelled mote,
We long for their return, sometime

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: KT
Date: 18 May 20 - 10:34 PM

Broken-hearted.

Subject: RE: Obit: Micca
From: ranger1
Date: 18 May 20 - 10:43 PM

He was my dear friend. The first time I met him was at my first Getaway. We rode back from the Getaway in the back of Sinsull's van, and while he was here in Maine, I took him to the park I work at. He immediately fell in love with the place, and on every subsequent visit, I would take him back. On a later trip, he mentioned something about taking photos and I told him I didn't have a digital camera. A week or so later, UPS pulled up and delivered two boxes from Amazon. In them was a digital camera and all the gear to go with, along with a card saying "Always expect a gnome to do the unexpected". I shared many photos with him, and on his grand tour of North America, he bought himself a new DSLR camera and gifted me with the old one, along with a 300 zoom lens. I think that was the same trip where we took him with us to visit J-boy's parents and they took us out on Little Sebago Lake and we saw loons up close. I also set up the spotting scope for him at the park so he could see our osprey up close and personal. He was like a little kid, he was so excited.

He was there for me in the hard times, too. Writing a poem for our dog Clancy when he died, calling me after my father died, checking on me if he hadn't heard from me for a while. And it hurts like hell right now to lose him, I am so glad he was in my life.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:06 PM

I went to England for Whitby Folk Week in August, 2002. I barely knew Micca, but he offered to give me lodging at his home in Plaistow in the London area before and after the festival in Whitby. He wasn't much of a walker, and I ran him ragged walking around London. But he wanted to make sure that I had a good time. In the process of my visit there, we became fast friends. He attended the Getaway camp in Maryland, and I'd see him there - and I always enjoyed him so much.
And then I was surprised as heck when he asked to come visit me with ClaireBear here in my home in the middle of nowhere in the Sierra Foothills - so he met my wife and family, too.

He was always so enthusiastic about everything, and he treated every person he knew as a treasure. And he loved to sing his silly songs - and we all loved those songs, especially "Gladiator" and "The Hash My Father Scored." He knew what it meant to take delight in life.

And I loved him.
So many of us did.
God, we're gonna miss you, Micca.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,J-boy
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:19 PM

Farewell Micca. I'm gonna miss ya,mate.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:28 PM

I hope Bill_D will come up with some of his great retrospective photos of some of these events.

I never met Micca, but over the years we wrote via various media and I always appreciated his scientific mind; he had very good observations and advice on many topics.

He sent the best Secret Santa parcel ever to Moonglow, when she participated in the game. And we made sure she sent a thank you note because it was expected (as a teenager she was a little slow about the sending.) I wish I could send Micca a big thank you now for all of the pleasure he offered at Mudcat, the silliness, the music, and the humor. He was a giant among our group, and Keb got the description right, he looked (and sometimes acted) like a character out of Middle Earth.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:32 PM

This is so sad. I just saw a post from him on Facebook a few days ago. Micca hosted me at his home in East London more than once, didn't hesitate to offer hospitality on many levels. He was a great cook too. He was a delightful human being, kind, generous, full of hilarious stories, enthusiastic about so many things, including folk music. I hadn't seen him in person in may years but we stayed in touch on Facebook. I am sad to hear of his passing and I shall miss his light in the world.

Peg

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:34 PM

hmm well it says GUEST but it's me, Peg....not sure how to fix.

---

I added your name to that post for you. ---heartbroken mudelf

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Mary Katherine sans cookie
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:35 PM

I am so very sorry to hear this sad news. His contributions here were always appreciated by me. He will be greatly missed.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: hsempl
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:40 PM

I am so sorry to hear this - I did not know Micca personally but having been at Getaway with him he’s not forgettable. I love learning more about him through your all’s memories and his beautiful poems. What a life well lived and loved.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: KT
Date: 18 May 20 - 11:56 PM

Micca was a very talented writer. I tried to get him to compile his writing into a book, but he was pretty humble about it. I sure wish he had.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,alison
Date: 19 May 20 - 12:06 AM

So very, very sad to read this today.
I never met him in "real life" but I remember those late night / early morning ICQ & hearme, chats between London & Sydney.
I wear with pride the pendant he sent me.
I'll be looking in the skies tonight Micca.
Travel well my friend.

Alison

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: gnu
Date: 19 May 20 - 12:20 AM

Oh dear! My sincerest condolences to all who knew this fine gentleman.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: JennieG
Date: 19 May 20 - 12:22 AM

Sad news indeed......condolences to all those who knew Micca, whether in real or cyber life.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: ranger1
Date: 19 May 20 - 12:25 AM

Gnu, if you ask those who knew Micca, you'll find out that "gentleman" might not be the most apt description... Lovable rogue is perhaps more fitting.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Mrrzy
Date: 19 May 20 - 12:32 AM

Another man done gone.

So sad.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Genie
Date: 19 May 20 - 01:14 AM

I am heartbroken to hear this news. I didn’t know Micca well but I have delighted in his music and humor and sweet soul for over 19 years here at Mudcat as well as some chances I had to meet him and share music with him at Getaway and recently via Facebook. I was looking forward, now that our pandemic-induced social distancing has necessitated and then enabled “virtual” song circles, to inviting Micca to join us out here on the left Coast and sing for us out here.
Micca, your soul and music were and will remain a treasure.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Amergin
Date: 19 May 20 - 01:32 AM

OH fuck....This place is looking more and more like a cemetery.

I didn't know him well, but he was always funny in the old hearme and other such chatrooms. I remember he sang an Ewan MacColl Parody and I just about pissed myself laughing. I know several of his parodies were/are in Aine's old songbook, if that's still being kept up.

It's not as beautiful as the pieces shared above, and may be slightly inappropriate...but it was him.

The Manchester Wanker
By Micca

I 've been out bird pulling, and with the lads bulling
about all the chicks that I've shagged
The yarns that I've told would make you feel old
as with all the others I've bragged
but give me a large box of tissues
And a warm place to place my behind
and rather give up hand shandies
I think I would rather go blind

Chorus
I'm a wanker, I'm a wanker
from Manchester way.
I get all my pleasure the solitary way
I may be bash my bible on Sunday
But I bash my bishop on Monday

The girl three doors down is a bit of a clown
She wears the most sheer underwear
I know 'cos I've felt it and touched it and smelt
While it hung on the clothesline to air
I asked her out to the pictures
By calling her up on the phone
But I shot my load in her knickers
While lying in bed all alone

Chorus

I went out with my neighbour who tested vibrators
She was built like the terrible hulk
She spent more on batteries than you could win in the lotteries
And she bought Man sized tissues in bulk
But there was one drawback to marriage
She dribbled when chewing the cud
And rather than shagging this woman
I'd rather be pulling my pud

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Linda Kelly
Date: 19 May 20 - 02:38 AM

Still reeling with shock and dismay. Just a lovely lovely man. A great lyricist and long distance song collaborator. There was always something other worldly about Micca. Safe journey back to the mothership dear friend. Linda Kelly

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: The Sandman
Date: 19 May 20 - 02:52 AM

amergin , what a wonderful parody, . r.i. p

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: John J
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:12 AM

To say that I'm saddened by Micca's passing is an understatement. Micca was one of the good guys, the man who was always just 'there'.
I first met him at the Llanstock Mudcat weekend - where I mistakenly thought he was 'our' Bernard, the likeness was uncanny.
I can't quite believe I'll never see him again.
Stay safe Micca, I miss you.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:12 AM

He failed to credit me for the first two lines of the chorus!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Ebbie
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:13 AM

The song I will always associate with Micca is the very long one that everyone sang at the first of two times I made it to the Getaways:
    I'm glad glad very very glad
    I'm glad I'm a gladiator
    Ancient Rome, that's my home
    Fried fish shop by the Hippodrome
    I'm glad glad very very glad
    From my helmet to my toes
    My old Dad was a Roman lad
    And he left me a Roman nose
    2, 3, 4, 1, 2, 3, 4

I don't think he ever forgot anybody. Ever. Out of the blue the phone would ring and there would be lovely Micca.

I will miss him.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:15 AM

I met Micca a few times. He took me to a couple of pub sessions and to C# house in when I visited London. He came to the Mudcat gather in Manchester and stayed with us a couple of times. It was always a pleasure to be in his company and although in recent years we have only met up virtually I shall miss his presence greatly.

RIP mate.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,open mike
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:32 AM

Oh, he has brought us all together here... Still working magic from beyond... A chemist, or alchemist... Sorry to see him go!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,mouldy
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:32 AM

I've not been on here for ages, for no real reason, but I have just heard the news about Micca.

I only met him a few times: at the Yorkshire Gatherings, and once at a friend's house, when he was visiting, but one of my most treasured memories is taking him to Selby Abbey, so that he could search for, and photograph all the Green Men he could find, and then doing a tour of the local area, to visit a few more churches. We got on extremely well.

He was good fun, he was knowledgeable, he was extremely talented, he had a naughty streak, and I liked him very, very much.

Rest well, Micca

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 19 May 20 - 04:00 AM

Oh, no, not another of my Mudcat friends. We met mostly on line but exchanged "witty banter" a lot. I'm too choked to say more, RIP old friend.
RtS

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 19 May 20 - 04:16 AM

First met Micca at the Stony Stratford Mudgather, where we set up UK Mudcat, and several other places since,over the years. I will always remember him singing The Hash My Father Scored, at a pub in Portaferry NI, where the tune is extremely sectarian, and has been known to start many a fight. However, he got away with it, as only he could. I certainly wouldn't have dared to do it.
Journey on Micca, "Lovable rogue"

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: fat B****rd
Date: 19 May 20 - 04:22 AM

My best thoughts and regards to his family and friends.
RIP Micca

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 May 20 - 04:23 AM

he was my Secret Santa in 2003 & sent me some wonderful poems as clues
GUEST,Sandra in Sydney's SS - PM
Date: 18 Nov 03 - 11:44 AM

***Crackle***crackle****
" the Prezzie departing from Platform 1 is the 14.55 calling at
Kapland Central, Lapland South, Helsinki, St Petersburg, then Fast to Vladivostok, Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, and Perth,
Adelaide, Melbourne (change for VicRail) Woolamooloo, Geelong and Kings Cross(without St Pancras)" Travellers are reminded that various line works, snow, leaves etc may cause unpridictable delays"*** crackle***If you wished to catch this Prezzie, TOO LATE it has now departed!!!!!****Crackle****

" Its time to go now
Haul away that Prezzie
Haul away that Prezzie
Its Posting time

Get some stamps on her
Haul away that parcel
Haul away that parcel
Its Posting time"

prezzie included a CD-rom of photos, unfortunately I can't see these pics of Mayday processions, Joe's visit to Micca, UK Catter gatherings, Getaway & more,as modern iMAcs don't have CD slots. I might have to speak to a techy friend to get them downloaded to USB.

RIP with lots of songs, poems & silliness

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Gervase
Date: 19 May 20 - 04:31 AM

Bugger. A twinkling bundle of mischief who would always lift the heart and fill the room. The sort of person your mother warned you never to play with, but such fun and so very kind too. I’ll miss the daft chats about Wagner, whisky and Wicca, the parodies and the serious songs, the laughs and the tales of the sea. The world is a duller place without him.
He epitomised what was best about this place.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 19 May 20 - 04:40 AM

It's funny what you remember. When he stayed with us he was quite taken with our family quirk of having picalilli with a cooked breakfast. I don't know if he ever tried it again but it made me see what we had to cook (only black pud, egg and mushrooms) and had it with picalilli in his honour :-)

With mentions of Mudgathers it set me thinking about them too. I shall start a separate thread for forward planning one when the time is right.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 19 May 20 - 05:08 AM

Terrible news. Micca and I were at Paddington tech together in 1967-69. Both training as Lab techs. Years later I met him again through Mudcat. I remember his singing The Hash my father scored at Portaferry. Sad news indeed. I will let Cobble know.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 19 May 20 - 05:57 AM

Oh, Micca, you were a stalwart friend. From the first time Sinsull brought him to New Hampshire after a Getaway- I was so excited at their arrival I forgot to put sugar in the apple pie I was baking, and he was delighted, because with his diabetes he wasn't supposed to have sugar (we all know how well that went sometimes).

He visited us several more times in my New Hampshire years, and had a special spot on my porch where he delighted in the birds, especially the blue jays. I'll always think of him when the jays come around from now on.

He showed up at Heathrow at 6:30 in the morning when my daughter and I came for a visit in 2005. That was the day of the second subway bombing attempt, which thankfully failed, and he spent two days showing us all over London, took us to C#, to his favorite bakery, bookshop and market. Earlier this year, before the pandemic, I had determined to get back to London as soon as possible, because I had a funny intuition.

Just about a week ago we had a long Skype chat. I remember making a point of saying, "I love you" when we signed off. He called again a few days later, but I wasn't in a place where I could pick up. I'll be sorry about that for a long time.

Go well, dear friend.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Jos
Date: 19 May 20 - 06:22 AM

Oh dear. I hadn't seen him for some years, but somehow I'd thought he would always be there.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,black walnut
Date: 19 May 20 - 06:52 AM

Many years ago I asked Mudcat if anyone in London could take me and my daughter in for a couple of nights in London. Micca answered. Through him I met LIz and Squeak and many others. Ever thankful.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Nick
Date: 19 May 20 - 06:53 AM

Sorry to hear. Not a great photo from March 2008 (I think) from the Sun, Beverley. Micca

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Janie
Date: 19 May 20 - 07:17 AM

Others have already expressed, and better than could I, what a lovely, creative, and caring soul he was.

I will miss you, Micca.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: bbc
Date: 19 May 20 - 07:38 AM

Just heard. Such sad news. One of the mudcat old guard. Rest in peace!

bbc

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Trevor
Date: 19 May 20 - 07:53 AM

I'm really sad to hear this news. I don't frequent the Cafe so much now, but I remember Micca well from the early days, and I remember laughing with him - maybe at the gathering at Llanfair Caereinion which must have been at least a hundred years ago. Travel well....

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Hazel Richings /Pistachio
Date: 19 May 20 - 07:54 AM

Micca was a sweet soul I met through singing with Linda Kelly. He gave us his song Thiepval ...and then Channels. In Yorkshire he surprised us both ..arriving for special birthdays . Goodness, I hardly knew him but so appreciated his style and his uniqueness. Wonderful wordsmith ... posting another beautiful.poem last Sunday and in this current, situation preferring to be A loof rather than A lert! Rest easy .. I am so sorry I didnt take the time to visit.
Remain aloof ..and soar XX

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Bill Sables
Date: 19 May 20 - 08:11 AM

Very Sad. First time I met him was in Wales at Llanfairs gathering but we did meet many times after that.
Rip Micca

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 May 20 - 08:54 AM

Jeri "really nice dinner [singular]"??? DINNERSSSSSS! At Acorns at the New England Center multiple times, at the Black Trumpet in Portsmouth (NH). Around the table at Chez Schulz-Hall in Nottingham, NH — Tom (Curmudgeon) providing the delectible food, Micca providing the wines (yes, plural) and Ardmore and port (oh! that lovely port!) to lubricate the lively dinner table conversation that spilled over into the wee hours. Songs, quotations, poetry and comic verse, book and film references, merchant marine wisdom...Life, the Universe...EVERYTHING.

One of my most captivatingly interesting friends...

His songs, from "Thiepval" to "Shantyman Whose Never Been to Sea"...

We hadn't talked for a couple weeks. I never had a chance to tell him I'd ordered (and received) his last book recomendation.

The world is, quite suddenly, a more colorless place.

I miss you, Traveling Gnome, but right here at my hand is the Rosetta Stone flash drive...and just around the corner is the stuffed octopus sometimes worn as a hat.

Linn

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Charmion
Date: 19 May 20 - 09:45 AM

Micca was a great friend to Edmund and me, as he was to so many who have already posted.

I have rarely met anyone so generous with his time and space. Like Animaterra and her daughter, in 2006 Edmund and I enjoyed the great privilege of a visit as house guests in Plaistow, and Micca's services as guide to his favourite things in London. I will never forget the bolt of combined relief and delight when I spotted him waiting for us in Arrivals at Heathrow, and the pang when I realized that he had arisen well before dawn to get there in time on the Tube.

The last time we saw him was in 2016, when we were booked in at a Travelodge on Woolwich High Street. Again, he met us at Heathrow at an indecent hour and escorted us across London and onto the Crossrail, a journey we were too exhausted to have managed on our own. My last sight of him was outside the Great Harry, where we had eaten a sort-of-okay Wetherspoon's Sunday lunch. He was a bit tottery then, no longer up to marathons such as the Micca Tour of the British Museum, but still his salty self and the best dinner companion we could hope for.

Since then, our only contact has been through Facebook. Fortunately, Micca's skill with a quip made him one of the few people who used that medium to good advantage.

In the current pandemic conditions, I honestly cannot foresee ever visiting the UK again. Without Micca in it, London is so much less appealing that I almost don't mind.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Carly
Date: 19 May 20 - 09:55 AM

He was witty and a bit of a rogue, with a kind heart and endless enthusiasm, sharing and caring....Micca, the world was a better place for your presence, and I mourn your departure. We will remember you with love.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Jeri
Date: 19 May 20 - 10:00 AM

Sorry, Linn, I meant to imply that was a regular thing "when[ever] he came over here", but thanks for pointing out how someone might interpret it. One day, I'll do something right.

What I love is seeing all the people who de-lurk to post. What I hate is that it takes somebody dying to get y'all to. Glad to see everybody.
I loved the photos he posted on Facebook of various mythological messages from tube stations.
He liked a painting I did years ago (I'm pretty sure now it was oil pastels), so I sent it to him. It was in his house somewhere. It made me happy that he liked it enough to have it framed and put up.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Raedwulf
Date: 19 May 20 - 10:33 AM

Fare thee well, Micca. I knew you only slightly & haven't seen you in years, which was undoubtedly my loss & your gain!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Crane Driver
Date: 19 May 20 - 10:51 AM

Really sad news. Trying hard not to be trite. Not seen him for years but got facebooked by him regularly. One of the good guys.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 May 20 - 10:51 AM

Micca had relatively few posts here (5314 as a logged-on member) and only 30 as a guest. Clearly his strength was in all of his various forms of communications, online, in person, and by phone. You're all so fortunate to have met or spoken with him.

Katlaughing used to call people regularly also; I'm willing to bet she and Micca spoke often before her death. Perhaps this is something we could all learn and benefit from.

Here's a classic thread discussing Micca.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: KT
Date: 19 May 20 - 10:55 AM

When Micca came here for a visit, I believe it was 2008, I was excited beyond words as I prepared for his arrival. Having been his fortunate companion on a marvelous tour through London a few years earlier, I was eagerly anticipating the opportunity to return his kindness and wanted everything to be just right to welcome him. Just as I was about to leave for the airport to meet his plane, a quick scan through the pantry revealed, to my horror, that it lacked a key ingredient. PROPER tea! Oh, I had lots of herbal stuff, and a box of Tetley Tea bags, but for Micca? Nothing but the finest English tea would do. With no time to spare as I heard his plane’s approach, I dashed into the grocery store across the road from the airport and quickly assessed the tea aisle. There - the finest English Breakfast Tea! Perfect! Made it to the airport just in time to see that gnomely presence emerge from the jetway. Back home, settling in for a catch up chat, sure enough, Micca asked for tea. So glad I’d gotten the right stuff, desiring to serve the perfect cuppa to my friend from England, I was horrified to realize that in my haste, I’d picked up loose tea leaves. A quick scrounging about turned up an old tea ball, the holes in which, were way too big for this fine English Breakfast Tea, resulting in a hot swirl of little black flecks. No worries, says Micca, I’ll get the right stuff tomorrow. Next day, at the market, what do you suppose Micca throws into our shopping cart? Yep. A box of Tetley Tea bags. We had a good laugh about that over the years.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 May 20 - 11:19 AM

This should link to the Facebook album where Allison posted photos. I don't know if new photos from other members can be added to it, but that would help them stay easy to find.

Here is his Facebook page.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Jacqui.c
Date: 19 May 20 - 01:06 PM

So sad to hear this. Micca was all that everyone has said and so easy to get on with. The first time I met him I was picking up a banjo he was loaning to Kendall and we talked for ages about folk, Wicca and all sorts of things. He was so knowledgeable and had such enthusiasm about everything.

Rest well Micca, your spirit is flying free.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: EBarnacle
Date: 19 May 20 - 01:38 PM

I only met Micca a time or three at Old Songs and at Mystic. I delighted in our conversations.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: My guru always said
Date: 19 May 20 - 02:03 PM

Our Beloved Micca travels on in our memories and beyond. Loved the little bugger, candle lit. RIP my dear friend xx

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Bill D
Date: 19 May 20 - 02:36 PM

"I hope Bill_D will come up with some of his great retrospective photos of some of these events. "

Yes... I will find and post some.... when I can see thru the tears.

Micca gave many people gifts.. and to me, it was small hip flask as we sat at a roadside eatery after a Getaway at Ramblewood.

He did write many song and poems, but the one I wish/hope there is a recording of is the one documenting his time monitoring the whaling industry south of Australia. The ending is simply stunning... giving sane people pause about the entire sordid industry. Micca said it took him many years to compose & edit it, and he finally sang it at the Getaway a few years ago.... I was only recently thinking of contacting him to get a copy... so... if anyone...

He knew I did woodworking, and he regaled me with descriptions of a table he had made from a large slab of exquisite wood.
   His stories of clever ways he had of dealing with bureaucratic nonsense in his former workplace were classic!

He was all the things his many friends have said above, and more... and the sense of loss that I feel right now would require a poet like a 'Micca' to express.

Photos later.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:10 PM

What can I possibly add to what everyone has already said? My heartfelt condolences to all those who know and love him. Micca has his place in the "In Memoriam" thread.

RIP

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Bill D
Date: 19 May 20 - 03:37 PM

I put a bunch on my google drive.... some are just crowd shots, and some are closeups. Micca at least twice starred in Jacqui's costume production.

Micca at Getaways

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 19 May 20 - 06:21 PM

So sorry to hear about Micca on Terri's Facebook post: enjoyed various humorous exchanges on here and Facebook, as humour is what he did so well. RIP Micca.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 19 May 20 - 09:13 PM

Micca   found me on one of my first folk festival visits over 30 plus years
ago at Towersea. The offer of his hip flask with 165% proof Polish vodka was the start of many years of knowing such a special man. He had a sip of Napoleon brandy 1811 vintage at Old Keepers as a return with his welcome by Hils and myself here with special times here. My video of his Wine tasting I hope will follow soon as he was in his element then. Farewell my special friend may the spirits be with you now R

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Nancy King
Date: 19 May 20 - 10:34 PM

There's not a whole lot I can say about Micca that hasn't already been said by others here. He was, of course, a major presence on Mudcat, and many folks knew him only that way. Others knew him very well personally for many years. And some, like me, met him occasionally at folk or other gatherings. But all of us have the same wonderful memories of him. He impressed everyone he met with his humor, talent, intelligence, kindness, and all-around impish presence.

He came to the FSGW Getaway several times -- documented in Bill's pictures. He always seemed to have a wonderful time, and we always enjoyed him immensely. A lot of Bill's photos show him participating in the mummers play put together by Jacqui c. He always threw himself into it, having a marvelous time, and helping the rest of us have a marvelous time too. We invited him to come to the Getaway again as our guest a few years ago, but unfortunately his health precluded such travel. I sure wish I'd been able to see him again.

A dear sweet man, who will be sorely missed by all of us. Farewell, Micca, we love you.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Ian
Date: 20 May 20 - 02:07 AM

Sad news indeed. Farewell mate. I will raise the hip flask tonight in memory of those Towersey times in the barn.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Liz the Squeak
Date: 20 May 20 - 04:18 AM

I first met Micca 33 years and 11 months ago, when he turned up in my home town for a gianting event. The fact that I was dressed in a pale blue and cerise clown suit, with wire in my plaits (a la St Trinians), must have alerted him to the fact that I could be of like mind - PLU as he would say. He introduced me to Towersey Folk Festival, the works of Tom Lehrer, Brick Lane Market, a whole raft of assorted nutters and folkies; and my husband Manitas. We managed to make him speechless for a whole hour when we asked him to be best man at our wedding; where I'm pretty sure he hexed the video, as it ran out of battery as he stood up to speak, and wasn't fixed until he had finished. He was a regular visitor to our house, livening many a dinner party, and when Phoebe (aka Bratling and Limpit) was born, he became honorary aged relative (grandfather was never a role that was going to sit with him, disreputable uncle was definitely his forte). He has been such a large - in every sense - part of our lives that it's proving very hard to imagine it without his loud, annoying, entertaining, lovable hairy presence.

LTS

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Richard Mellish
Date: 20 May 20 - 05:02 AM

I was barely acquainted with him and hadn't seen or heard him for several years, but I share the sadness at his departure. I think "Lovable rogue" gets it about right.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Matthew Edwards
Date: 20 May 20 - 05:09 AM

This is very sad news. I first encountered the life force that was Micca in the barn at Towersey back in 2001, and then at Llanstock, Manchester, and Stony Stratford. He had a knack for wild and wicked parodies, but I think Thiepval is his most powerful and moving song. Much love and sympathy to all his family. RIP Micca.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Brimbacombe
Date: 20 May 20 - 09:45 AM

It's rare you feel as devastated by the death of someone you never met, but just reading these tributes... wow. What a guy. Clearly he'll be missed, but if any of us get even half as many wonderful tributes when we pass on, we'll have lived a bloody good life. Rest in peace, Micca. My condolences to everyone lucky enough to have known and loved him.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,jan harding
Date: 20 May 20 - 10:42 AM

Knew Mike since 1970 when he worked at Chelsea college as a lab tech. He always had a bouncy spirit. He was always willing to catch up with anyone he knew who was passing through. No one was forgotten. His life was his family and his friends and music, plus the odd drink or two. Glad to have known you.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: MudGuard
Date: 20 May 20 - 12:59 PM

so sad - just a few days ago Alan, now Micca ...

I met him at Llanstock 2001, Stony Stratford 2002, Portaferry Loughstock II 2004, on the trip to Portaferry 2005 (visited him at his home), and again at Portaferry Loughstock FourScore 2006

I loved his witty comments - though many I must have misunderstood (English is not my first language).

Really liked the man!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: alanabit
Date: 20 May 20 - 04:16 PM

I had been hoping to meet him now that I am back in my native Cornwall. He was obviously a much loved man. I come here only rarely now. He was one of those whose posts I would invariably still enjoy.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Steve Parkes
Date: 20 May 20 - 06:00 PM

Oh, such sad news.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 20 May 20 - 08:57 PM

Sad news.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Severn
Date: 20 May 20 - 09:36 PM

He will be greatly missed.

I sang and listened to music with him on two continents and shared a couple of adventures with him, as well. He was a regular for quite a few years and I had the pleasure of co-leading a workshop with him. He loved to roam the globe posting interesting tales from who knows where, often visiting other mudcatters,and he even stayed in Laurel MD with me when I lived there. We called him The Travelocity Gnome after a radio and TV advertisement character. He always carried some sort of unique and tasty liquor with him and he would tell wonderful stories on into the night.She he was dismiss of somebody, he would work the phrase "...and the horse you rode in on" into whatever he was saying to the person to whom he spoke. He wrote some good songs both serious and humerous, my favorite being "The Sailor Man Who Never Went To Sea", but then, you might have your own.

He was great company and a unique presence and none of the time I was with him was ever misspent. Again, he will be greatly missed by many.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: CupOfTea
Date: 20 May 20 - 11:59 PM

I love the descriptions of Micca from those who knew him well, and loved him all. When I saw him in action at a Getaway, he seemed like the instigator of grand fun; "life of the party" seems like too meagre a description of his energy. I know that having met, and heard him firsthand gives me a deep appreciation of the tributes here. Would that we all should be remembered so fondly.

Joanne in Cleveland

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Maryrrf
Date: 21 May 20 - 03:41 PM

I am still getting over the shock of losing Micca. When I was going through a very difficult period several years ago and needed someone to talk to and a shoulder to lean on. I reached out to him via Facebook, and he responded unhesitatingly with support, guidance and just listening. He was a font of wisdom and understanding, helping me to understand and endure the difficult time I was going through. He was a rare spirit, deeply spiritual but also, as others have remarked, full of an almost childlike sense of appreciation and enjoyment of travel, conversation, good food and drink, music, poetry, history, people and life in general. Micca, you touched so many of us through your generosity, love and kindness. May the Goddess hold you in the palm of her hand, and thank you, thank you so very much.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: GUEST,Guest Tig & Badger
Date: 21 May 20 - 05:24 PM

I've only just got onto Mudcat after a long while. This is very sad news but he told me he wasn't feeling 'that good' when I last talked to him.

Another good friend to join the Folk Club in the Sky. Will miss you loads and loads Oh Ancient One.

xxxxxxx

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 21 May 20 - 07:48 PM

Only just caught up with this. Such sad news - he was such a big part of the mudcat family in so many ways, RIP Micca

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Morticia
Date: 22 May 20 - 10:59 AM

I've only just been able to bring myself to read this thread, I couldn't face it before now. For those that don't know, I am Micca's niece and we were very close and I am, not to put too fine a point on it, absolutely devastated.
Thank you all so much for your lovely, lovely words. He would have been tickled pink and probably quite surprised to know in what high esteem he was held.
I was the person who introduced him to Mudcat, all those great many years ago and I honestly think it may have been one of the most important things I have ever done because out of came so many good friends, new horizons and happy times for him and I am so grateful to all of you that shared the mad little sod with me. For those not on Facebook:
We are only allowed a few people at his funeral and it rather looks as though all spots are already taken. This being the case, I have arranged for the crematorium to webcast the service. Joining instructions when I get them but it will be 11th June @ 3pm. I don't mind whether you send flowers or donate or save your money to buy a drink to toast him with. If you do feel you want to send flowers, they need to be sent to: T.Cribbs and Sons, Victoria House, 10 Woolwich Manor Way, London E6 5PA.
Thanks again lovely people.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: KT
Date: 22 May 20 - 03:43 PM

Dear Morticia, my heartfelt condolences to you. He spoke of you often, with such fondness. May your happy memories and love for him ease the pain of losing him so suddenly.

He laughed at me a while ago when I told him I have his voice on my phone recorder, from a message he left years ago, and that I intended to keep it there forever, and woe be to the one who erases it! I cherish it even more now.

Thank you for sharing this information about his service. I will be tuning in from the other side of the globe, toasting him with a glass of wine from the bottle he gave me, which I was saving for a special occasion. Never occurred to be that it might be this.

Kind regards to you, Morticia, and to all those who loved and miss him.
KT

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Noreen
Date: 23 May 20 - 06:07 PM

I can’t sum up what Micca meant to me in a few words, still can’t believe I won’t talk to him again. I can still hear his voice, and his laugh, in my head so I’ll keep him there for now.

Micca’s first post to Mudcat

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Bill D
Date: 24 May 20 - 12:39 PM

I've added a few pics to my google drive folder...

added are pics of Micca in his kilt at a local pub

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 May 20 - 05:16 PM

Somebody, either here or on Facebook, posted a video of Micca singing "I'm Glad I'm a Gladiator" at one of the Getaways.

I must not be holding my mouth right because damned if I can find it.

Could someone please post a link?

Thanks!

Linn

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson)
From: ranger1
Date: 27 May 20 - 12:45 PM

Linn, it's in the first post on the thread.

Subject: Obit: Micca Patterson
From: Morticia
Date: 31 May 20 - 11:03 AM

Name
Michael Patterson
Location
Forest Park Crematorium, Hainault - Default Chapel
Date & Time
Thursday 11/06/2020 15:00
Event Number
768536 - please quote this on all correspondence and when calling
Requester
Jackie Ilines - T Cribb & Sons, Loughton

https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view
Login / Order ID: 32976
Password: ymhhfgdd

For those joining us for Mike's send off, all the details are above. Full instructions on the site , I understand it can be accessed for a month afterwards if you prefer.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson) Funeral 6/11
From: Noreen
Date: 31 May 20 - 08:09 PM

Thank you Morti xx

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson) Funeral 6/11
From: sleepyjon
Date: 01 Jun 20 - 03:14 PM

I'm not sure who can alter the title of a thread but could I suggest a further change - I nearly didn't open the thread itself as postponing the funeral to the 6th of November (which did seem a bit extreme but we live in strange times!) gave me plenty of time to catch up with the details. Perhaps specify 11th June to avoid transatlantic ambiguities!

Fond memories!

John Garrick

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson) Funeral 11th June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 02 Jun 20 - 01:34 AM

Like this. I don't know if thet sticks?

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit: Micca (Michael Patterson) Funeral 6/11
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 02 Jun 20 - 01:35 AM

It seems not.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Noreen
Date: 02 Jun 20 - 09:07 AM

Thanks Joe. x

Subject: Obit: MICCA PATTERSONS FUNERAL LOGON INSTRUC
From: GUEST,CHANCE SHIVER
Date: 08 Jun 20 - 11:11 AM

JUNE 1, 2020
by Fiona Campbell, Organizer
For those joining us online for Micca's send off, all the details are below. Full instructions on the site , I understand it can be accessed for a month afterwards if you prefer.

Name
Michael Patterson
Location
Forest Park Crematorium, Hainault - Default Chapel
Date & Time
Thursday 11/06/2020 15:00 [June 11, 2020 for US readers]
Event Number
768536 - please quote this on all correspondence and when calling
Requester
Jackie Ilines - T Cribb & Sons, Loughton
https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view
Login / Order ID: 32976
Password: ymhhfgdd
https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

Subject: RE: Obit: MICCA PATTERSONS FUNERAL LOGON INSTRUC
From: GUEST,Chance Shiver
Date: 08 Jun 20 - 12:04 PM

For those of us Stateside, the date is June 11, 2020. And the time is 10:00am EDT.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Jeri
Date: 10 Jun 20 - 09:26 PM

Refresh

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: vectis
Date: 10 Jun 20 - 10:10 PM

So 2am here in NZ
on the 12th June

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Noreen
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 09:46 AM

For ease of reference, details below:
(you just need the details in bold when you get to the website.)

by Fiona Campbell, Organizer
For those joining us online for Micca's send off, all the details are below. Full instructions on the site , I understand it can be accessed for a month afterwards if you prefer.

Name
Michael Patterson
Location
Forest Park Crematorium, Hainault - Default Chapel
Date & Time
Thursday 11/06/2020 15:00 [June 11, 2020 for US readers]
Event Number
768536 - please quote this on all correspondence and when calling
Requester
Jackie Ilines - T Cribb & Sons, Loughton
https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

Login / Order ID:   32976
Password:             ymhhfgdd

https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Bill D
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 10:37 AM

I saw 'most' of it. The sound was not always clear for some speakers, but I felt a part of the service to say farewell to our friend.

..... bye, Micca

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: GUEST,jacqui.c
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 11:35 AM

Just finished watching. A good farewell to a beautiful spirit.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Jeri
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 11:37 AM

I was there for most of it. Around 20 minutes in, I think the bandwidth was overloaded, but I got back in 2 or 3 5 times. Long enough for O Fortuna. I always loved Micca's poetry.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Noreen
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 11:37 AM

I watched it in bits, between dodgy wifi and phone data.

Lovely ceremony.

I am sure many of us would love to have a transcript, when those who can, get a chance. There was much that will bear repeating; moving poetry and memories.

Thanks all. xx

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 11:43 AM

I wish I knew who the speakers were. If someone would transcribe the program that would be helpful.

I suspect there aren't many funerals that conclude with Carmina Burana. Well done, everyone!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 12:02 PM

The MC was Idris, the partner of Mike's niece Terri Messenger aka Morticia who gave the first eulogy. The first reader was Liz (the Squeak) Draper. The next eulogy was from Fiona Campbell aka Pixie of Doom who is Terri's daughter. (Lady) Penelope Ward led the singing and then there was a eulogy from Simon Wales. The final reading was from Fay Patterson, another of Mike's nieces and then Simone Davis gave the Blessing.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 01:08 PM

I, of course, watched. Had a little trouble understanding because of echo in the room. Then the livestream stalled about twenty after. Fiddled, changed browsers, stalled again, back to Firefox and more or less steady, so I didn't miss much.

Thanks, Manitas, for identifying everyone. I could recognize a few (thanks to Facebook), but was uncertain of others.

Good choice of music all 'round -- I joined in on "The Good Old Way" while letting the harmonies flow over me.

Linn

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Celtaddict
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 01:53 PM

Go well, dear friend.
I plan to watch when I can, probably this evening. I am glad he seems to have had a properly improper sendoff.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Jeri
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 03:29 PM

It was perfect here, and I loved all of it. A fine farewell.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 05:53 PM

Thanks Manitas for the info. I lost some of the proceedings because the screen froze a couple of times and I had to wait to get back in again. What was the Jake Thackray song at the beginning?

Kitty

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Jeri
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 06:10 PM

Shouldn't have said "perfect". It stalled for me 20 minutes in. I eventually got back in, stalled & restrted a couple more times. I think it's recorded, though. I love his poems. (Raven's Wings?) Is there a place to read them? I remember he used to carry around a book of poems. It seemed he'd written his own eulogy, and it was beautiful.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Bill D
Date: 11 Jun 20 - 08:32 PM

I am still wishing for the words... and tune, if possible... to his song about the whaling industry.
If anyone knows who is dealing with his effects.. I'm sure Micca would have a written copy somewhere. Any of his poems are of course welcome.

I saw somewhere that the service may be available as a recording for several weeks...

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 12 Jun 20 - 01:42 AM

The Last Will and Testament of Jake Thackray.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: My guru always said
Date: 12 Jun 20 - 04:02 AM

Thanks Manitas! We watched with a glass in hand & candle lit. Think it stalled for everyone 20 minutes in. Loved the opening song & closing music. Enjoyed singing The Good Old Way, sounded fantastic. A lovely farewell to our Travelling Companion.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Maryrrf
Date: 12 Jun 20 - 09:51 AM

I watched it and like many others had a little trouble about 20 minutes in but I didn't miss much. I especially liked the Pagan blessing at the end, which was exactly what he would have wanted. That was his path. All this has brought up so many memories of Mudcat and the community it once was. I had drifted away and hadn't been on Mudcat for a long time. It has changed, we all have, I guess, but it certainly was an amazing place that brought so many of us together. It feels somehow comforting to be here now.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Ebbie
Date: 12 Jun 20 - 01:37 PM

I just finished watching the service. It was lovely.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: KT
Date: 13 Jun 20 - 01:42 AM

I was up at 5:30, grabbed a coffee, lit a candle next to my Micca Gnome, and tuned in at 6. Like others, I lost a bit of it, so watched it over again. Cried through the whole thing. Everyone did such a lovely job. What a beautiful sendoff for our beloved Micca. I came away realizing, I still have so many questions for him. Also very grateful our paths crossed. KT

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 13 Jun 20 - 09:24 AM

Micca at the Old Keepers Easter Wine Tasting in 2011

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 13 Jun 20 - 10:57 AM

My video showing a fond memory of Micca. A special friend known for over 30 years with many good times together posted above RIP.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 13 Jun 20 - 12:33 PM

Have just watched it, 5pm UK time, a day late, but perfect reception: no freezes or glitches, so may be worth going back to watch again if you missed any of it.
A lovely service with a splendid ending. RIP Micca.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: KT
Date: 13 Jun 20 - 02:50 PM

Headphones made a huge difference in sound....

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Morticia
Date: 14 Jun 20 - 10:46 AM

Thank you all for your kind words and your presence which I felt was with me when I said goodbye to my dearest friend and uncle. If you want a copy of the order of service, you can email me at [e-mail] and I will send it. For some reason we only have half of one poem but LiztheSqueak has it all.
To Bill, I am so sorry but we haven't been able to find his songbook or the rest of his poems other than those he put on Facebook. I am absolutely broken hearted about it but he wasn't much on housekeeping as many of you know and many, many things are now lost for good, I fear.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Jeri
Date: 14 Jun 20 - 12:09 PM

I'd love any poems that can be found. I remember that ubiquitous book of lyrics and poems he had at sessions.
I loved that poem that Liz has.
I was inspired to locate a book he bought me once because he thought I'd like it, and should read it: The Rubaiyat (an illustrated version) by Omar Khayyam. I'm not sure who turned him loose in an old book store, but I appreciate it.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Peter T.
Date: 16 Jun 20 - 06:39 PM

The great Micca. A force of nature returned to nature.

Peter T.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 19 Jun 20 - 10:01 AM

Liz the Squeak here - We cleared as much of his house as we could, grabbing various things as we found them, and it's taken a while to get it sorted.

We have all the songs/poems he committed to computer, along with several hard drives that also have his photographs on them.

We have a pile of notebooks which he wrote those songs/poems in which will take some time to decipher (Sherlock Holmes' little dancing men have nothing on trying to interpret Micca's handwriting), and transcribe onto computer.

We have his song books that contained those he wrote, and those written by others that he would sing. I am hoping to put them into some semblance of order and create a book of Micca's songs, poetry and pictures of the places that inspired them, for anyone who is interested. Again, this will take time.

We also found a large quantity of hipflasks, so cleaned them out, and refilled them with the last of his supply of whiskey. These were handed round after the funeral service, those who wanted to took a flask and we raised a toast to him.

We will be having a proper raucous and boozy send off as he would wish, once we are allowed larger gatherings, and will share details once we have them. It's looking like it may be nearer Easter than Christmas though.

LTS

PS, The poem I have is on a PDF file, as a scan of the original, which of course, has now vanished into the ether - much how it appeared in the first place - but I will attempt to transpose it next week and post it.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 19 Jun 20 - 10:58 AM

Lovely idea to collate his poems and songs, Liz.
I still can't get my head round losing him, though we met really online. We were only exchanging quips a couple of days before his accident.
RtS

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 24 Jun 20 - 07:22 AM

The poem that I read at his funeral service: We were clearing things to sell on (to raise funds for his funeral) and this came fluttering out from the shelf as I took a handful of CDs. I took it home, scanned it, and put it away safely, from where it vanished. I still haven't been able to find the original, but have transcribed this from the scans. I corrected a few punctuation errors, but otherwise, it is as I found it:



The Raven folds her Wings. Att: M A Patterson

We are travellers through a landscape and may only stay a while,
Short and transient as moonbeams, or a loved one’s smile,
And our footprints soon are vanished from the wood or on the shore,
‘Til the Raven folds her wings and we’re no more.

You have seen the green glass ocean dump white madness on the decks.
You have tried to read her secrets on her hidden reefs and wrecks.
You have danced the circle skyclad, in the wood and wold, and shore
‘Til the Raven folds her wings and you’re no more.

You have seen, out in New England, watched the green man turning red,
As the Holly King did smite him, leave the Oaken King for dead;
Green and gold fading to snowfall, freezing landscape to the core;
‘Til the Raven folds her wings and he’s no more.

Now your times are moving onward, to the quiet end of days
Where the time it moves in circles, loses talent to amaze,
With its passage marked by newspapers that say less of more and more,
‘Til the Raven folds her wings, and they’re no more.

It’s an ending and beginning, cycling circles round and round.
Green shoots rise, mature, and wither and lie dead upon the ground.
Pale moons waxing and then waning, children born and leave the nest,
‘Til the Raven folds her wings and they’re at rest.

What is left behind that’s solid? Marking passage through the world,
Some a stone, for others ashes, for a few a banner furled.
For the lucky few it’s friendship that will last for evermore
‘Til the Raven folds her wings and it’s no more.

All that’s left is hope and friendship, and good people we once knew.
Hope may die, but friends endureth as the only thing that’s true.
And its fires, they burn so brightly; then they’re vanished line a song,
And the Raven folds her wings, and she is gone.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 24 Jun 20 - 07:23 AM

Sorry, that was from me - Liz the Squeak whose cookie has vanished into the ether.

LTS

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Jeri
Date: 24 Jun 20 - 07:51 AM

Thank you!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Jun 20 - 09:30 AM

Good work, Liz! And thank you!

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Bill D
Date: 24 Jun 20 - 11:47 AM

Wonderful, Liz... sort those treasures well! I will look forward to them when you have a chance...

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 04 Jul 20 - 04:49 PM

Liz the Squeak here - All of Miccas' note and song books, disc drives and other data storage has been handed over to Morticia, who will be undertaking the task of going through them all. Much as I would have loved to have sorted them, it is only fitting that his family take on the task.

LTS

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Bill D
Date: 04 Jul 20 - 08:06 PM

Thanks Liz... I both envy..and do not envy..her the task/privilege.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: Joe Offer
Date: 05 Jul 20 - 01:09 AM

I hope that all that stuff can be posted at Mudcat. If anybody personified the best of Mudcat, it was Micca.

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Jul 20 - 05:02 AM

Damn right, Joe.
RtS

Subject: RE: 2020 Obit:Micca(Michael Patterson) Funeral 11 June
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Nov 21 - 04:20 AM

(((All Micca's Lovies)))

-S-