ANTD Michael R. Anders died on his 58th birthday

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/os-plane-crash-palm-coast-20130105,0,5524572.story

I remember a discussion with Mike on how to improve chess participation in Evansville and he had a very positive influence on my wife and me to start our club.

Mike was once the chess coach at Evansville Day School. Now my sons currently enjoy that honor. Although I hadn’t seen Mike in a few years I remember his wonderful personality and I know he will be dearly missed.

(p.s. You should go back through his MSA Tournament Director history and enjoy some of the names he gave tournaments that referenced Tolkien’s Hobbit series as well as others.)

I worked with Mike Anders at the 2003 Kings Island Open. He was an absolute gentleman, from whom I learned much during that weekend in Cincinnati. I’m sad to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family and friends.

Mike was a joy to be around. I will miss him.