I sat on my sofa Easter night, watching a movie with my roomie/bestie Linda. I also zipped through Facialbook, when I saw it.
My dear friend F.M. (Mike) Yates had passed.
I was stunned. I am still stunned. I eventually learned that he'd died a few days earlier- of what I still don't know. Now I'm writing about a true polymath- a renaissance man whose mutant power was being a friend to all, and I still can't believe he's gone.
I met Mike in 1989. He worked at Comics and More in the King of Prussia mall. I worked at TGI Fridays in the same mall. On breaks, I'd occasionally go over to the comic store to see what was new. He'd always engage me, finding out what I liked and making recommendations.
One day, he told me there was a graphic novel I NEEDED to see. He brought me a copy of Sandman: Dolls House. I never heard of this title. The only Sandman comics I knew of were the golden age guy with the gasmask and the Kirby one from the 70s (who, I'd learn, makes an appearance in this book.) I was dubious. As I worked for tips, I had to be careful with my money (like I don't today?) He insisted, and showed me a panel of the book.
I said "So?"
He said "that's Death- literally that's Death, saying "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious."
I bought the book, which was my introduction to the works of one of my now favorite authors, Neil Gaiman. So, it's all Mike's fault that I spent maybe over a thousand on Gaiman's work.
Of course, there was more to Mike than comics. He produced videos, acted, made music, and his mashed potatoes were a food group unto themself. Whenever I saw him, I knew that I'd be laughing to tears from his sharp wit. Eventually, I started work in the hobby games industry, doing sales. I made sure that wherever Mike worked was in my retailer list. He eventually moved over to Showcase Comics in Bryn Mawr, so I did to (as far as comic purchases). There I discovered a new group of friends for a shining moment, until I moved to Baltimore.
Being hours away meant I didn't see him as often, but we'd often talk on the phone, especially if I needed a particularly thorny comics, TV, or movie trivia question answered. I only stumped him once- and I was so proud that I did! (I think it was a question about Benita Bizzare's henchmen in the Bugaloos: Woofer and Tweeter.)
Mike was among the first to contact me after I sent my announcement video to dear friends. He supported me completely- always. He never misgendered me, nor messed up my name. He was a true ally.
I am still stunned by the loss. I don't know why he passed. He had medical issues, so I guess that may be why. In any case, the world is that much dimmer and less interesting with him gone. I still can't find the words. He was truly one of a kind. I know he and Hugh are together again playing games and talking science fiction.
Sleep well, Mike. May the four winds blow you safely home.
