Greetings,

In addition to the well heart felt words Andrew has written, I would like to say that Mike Schaus, with his joyful and happy personality, has left his mark all across Canada. I’m not from the same club, or even from the same province as him, but every time we crossed paths I enjoyed his company. He was always positive and his smile was contagious. He will be missed by people he probably saw only once or twice because he was so genuinely kind to everyone. I had the privilege of going on tour with Mike and I remember noticing how appreciated he was by all the paddlers and coaches. He brought people together and contributed to the feel of great camaraderie through the whole paddling community .

I remember during summer 07, Mike sent at least a dozen emails to all the paddlers racing at Nationals. He was organizing a k-2 race for couples as a final fun event of the Championships. He was so enthusiastic about his idea he even bought a trophy for the winning couple. No last minute match ups of convenience, Mike insisted. If there were any doubts about the legitimacy of the couple, he promised to make them kiss on the dock before the race! His idea fed lots a funny conversations, and paddlers around Canada had one more reason to look forward to Nationals. It would not be a stretch to say that Mike’s race created numerous couples that summer.

To me Mike was a paddling friend that I would have liked to have known a lot better. He will be missed by a generation of paddlers that enjoy working hard on the water but, above all, enjoy being part of the life around canoe clubs.

I am expressing my deepest condolences to the Schaus’ family and friends.

Sincerely,
Gabriel