The Snake World has lost another friend

[ArpeggioAngel]

I received a call today from the daughter of Mike Blickendorfer (mbdorfer here on the forum) that he passed away last night in his sleep.
Newer members won't remember him as he has been out of snakes for a few years now, but those of you who have been around as long as I have will remember him - and his fondness for snakes and rock'n'roll.
He was very instrumental in helping cultivate my love for snakes - he was like a mentor to me. I spent a lot of time at his house as well as on outings to go looking for reptiles in the local parks and such. He was a kind man with a big heart and I will miss him dearly.
I was lucky enough to visit with him just a few weeks ago and I am very glad I did.
RIP my friend - have a shot with all the old rockers for me.

 

[snakewispera snr]

RIP Mike.... I made a great friend who truly loved music when I 'met' you.

For you Mike...

 

[jazzgeek]

I'm in shock here. RIP Mike.

 

[snakewispera snr]

I'm in shock here. RIP Mike.

Same here Dale... Totally shocked.

 

[Nanci]

Mike was one of my mentors, too, and a real friend. So many reptile shows together, and field trips to fun herp-related places, and fun times just sitting around talking snakes. I was saddened to see him get out of the hobby, and in disbelief for years that he was really out. Thankful he stayed in touch, though, till the end.

I still have one of Mike's snakes, Janine. I always said I'd keep her till he wanted her back.

This first pic is one Mike took of Janine. He titled it "But Mommy, I don't want to go tubing!" Man, I'll miss that sense of humor. RIP Mike.

 

[chris68]

Very sad news, Mike was a great guy and will be missed.

 

[Susielea]

Rest in peace Mike :'(

 

[Susan]

Rest in Peace, Mike.

 

[smigon]

What a shame that I never met him, he looks like someone I would be friends with.

RIP, Mike.

 

[Chip]

Oh, that's awful. Had no idea he wasn't well. Condolences to his friends and family.

 

[ghosthousecorns]

So very sad to hear this, I remember so many great posts on this forum by Mike, who loved snakes and rock and roll and had a great sense of humor, we liked a lot of the same bands and it is such a shock to hear of his passing. RIP Mike

 

[Tom Tuttle]

RIP Dorfer! The internet won't be that same without you pal! Godspeed!

 

[Ravenessa]

and he looks so young at least he got to go peacefully...
RIP..

 

[El Jefe]

That is sad news indeed.