From Mark Chatterton
I only knew Mike briefly, when he was acting Managing Director at Coltran Products in South Yorkshire in the mid 1990's.
At the time I was a young, up and coming manager in the organisation, and I learned a lot from Mike, who was instrumental to the ongoing success of the business. He definitely was always full of life and was a great inspiration to me at the time.
It is purely by coincidence that I have only today learned of his tragic death as I was looking to make contact with him for some sound business advice.
His early death comes as a real shock and I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to his wife and family.
Fondest memories.
Mark
Friday, 14 December 2007
Saturday, 17 November 2007
Mike - coach extraordinaire
From Ivor Harrison
I’ll never forget Mike for his kindness, patience and ability to communicate effectively. Both he and Arthur Smith were good enough to support me in the Applied Corporate Finance elective – knowing full well that my contribution would be limited in our project work. Mike was extraordinarily patient and understanding and I learnt a great deal from him – for which I will always be grateful.
You will be sorely missed.
Ivor
I’ll never forget Mike for his kindness, patience and ability to communicate effectively. Both he and Arthur Smith were good enough to support me in the Applied Corporate Finance elective – knowing full well that my contribution would be limited in our project work. Mike was extraordinarily patient and understanding and I learnt a great deal from him – for which I will always be grateful.
You will be sorely missed.
Ivor
Tuesday, 30 October 2007
A Wonderful Person
From Gillian Cook
I came across this blog by chance - I'm so shocked. I had no idea Mike was ill. I'm so terribly sorry for his wife and family.
I knew Mike as a business analyst at McKinsey and when he worked at Gower Furniture and Coltran Products in Yorkshire. He was a wonderful person - generous, loving and full of fun. His friends were extremely important to him and I remember him looking forward to visits when he lived in Hebden Bridge.
I don't know what else to say really - he was a very important part of my life and I'll never forget him.
Gillian Cook
I came across this blog by chance - I'm so shocked. I had no idea Mike was ill. I'm so terribly sorry for his wife and family.
I knew Mike as a business analyst at McKinsey and when he worked at Gower Furniture and Coltran Products in Yorkshire. He was a wonderful person - generous, loving and full of fun. His friends were extremely important to him and I remember him looking forward to visits when he lived in Hebden Bridge.
I don't know what else to say really - he was a very important part of my life and I'll never forget him.
Gillian Cook
Sunday, 16 September 2007
Memories of "Mal"
From Mark Blackwell and James Miller
Charterhouse
Mike was supposed to complete his secondary education with Mr Schlich at the Royal Grammar School, Guildford but his parents moved to America so he had to transfer at short notice to a boarding school and chose Mr Miller’s establishment, the local arch-rivals Charterhouse.
Mike should have been a Charterhouse Foundation Scholar but he transferred in too late to take the exam; nevertheless, he jumped a year into the Remove 1A class, at the top of the year above the 4th form, with the twelve Scholars and twelve best pupils moving up from 4A.
At the Quarterly “calling over” in which the class was paraded in front of the Headmaster underneath the Charterhouse Oak, he was a regular performer in the top 5 in the class. Indeed, he did not make a mistake in maths for a long time, getting the reputation of being like a computer. When he did slip up, people said he had “mal-functioned” and he was for ever more known to Carthusians as “Mal”.
Mike Bradbury was a Sutton Prizewinner in 1985. He was also awarded the Eustace Dallin Wade prize for Physics in 1982 and the Poole Prize for Biology in 1983. He was Deputy Head of House and a Library Monitor
In the 6th form, Mal studied double maths, physics and chemistry. He took the 4th term entrance and received a “two Es” offer from Trinity. However, he passed out of school with a clean sheet of “four As and two Ones”.
The five other members of his tiny further maths class went up as follows: “Ows” Osborne, now in the family firm of civil engineers, Christchurch; “Gorm” Allen, now a partner at Goldman Sachs, Balliol; Nige Medhurst, now an accountant, Trinity; “Jimbo” Miller, St John’s; and Chris Doran, now Fellow and Director of Studies in Natural Sciences at Sidney Sussex, Sidney Sussex. The quite brilliant Alison “Baffy” Deans followed Mal up to Trinity and then McKinseys; and the crazy man of the bunch Dave “Hogman” Hodges went up to Magdalene then founded Pet Doctors.
Cambridge
Mal turned up at Trinity to read Natural Sciences but changed to Engineering on the first day. While at Trinity he became increasingly good at photography and had a go at rowing.
By now, the Minotaurs were in existence and Mal became wary of attending The Stomp for fear of being thrown into the canals at the back of the Colleges by his new band of Minotaur friends. Indeed, in one term he included a ringer from Magdalene in his gents boat, the very chunky vet and former Carthusian “Hogman”, and they made a good effort to throw Mr Miller in the canals on The Stomp.
Mal was not prone to horsing about all of the time – he failed to get high-billing on the night of the Old Carthusian Society raid on Oxford when his old school housemate “Gorm” took a ducking in the Christchurch fountain, “Hogman” was arrested for bicycle theft and Mr Miller narrowly escaped into Balliol - although while inter-railing Mal was unexpectedly arrested in France with “Hogman” and Mr Miller on the hopelessly French charge of “picnicking without wine on a 2CV bonnet in a public place”.
Towards the end of his time at Trinity, Mal became interested in manufacturing and management generally. He was often at St John’s and would have long discussions about management with Mr Blackwell for many years to come. He served with distinction as Best Man at Mr Blackwell’s first wedding.
Years later Mike would also enjoy the friendship of Mark’s second wife, Caroline, especially at his home in Eye, Suffolk which he loved so much. After learning something of country ways Mal did finally realise why Mark was no longer in London at weekends during the 2001 Foot and Mouth crisis.
McKinsey & INSEAD
Upon Graduation, it could only be the best for Mal and he went to McKinsey, the blue bloods of management consultants. McKinsey paid for his MBA at INSEAD where his reputation for academic excellence continued – as well as his friendship. He remained very close to many of his INSEAD cohort in London for many years including Alex “Boo” Oliver, Andrew Brown, Arthur Smith, Francis Smulders, Karim Abboud, Omar Abbosh, Paul Owers and others the author has not had the pleasure of knowing.
Smallbone
After INSEAD, he took up the post of MD at Smallbones kitchens, where he met his wife-to-be Wendy Sage. Anyone would think that Mal would have whipped through the old-fashioned English kitchen furniture builders, Smallbones, with a vengeance, out-sourcing the manufacturing to the Far East, but not a bit of it. He could recognise quality when he saw it and how this could be interlinked with marketing: he was very proud to note many years after leaving Smallbones that their cabinets were still each built up one at a time, by hand, by an English craftsman in Devizes.
The last years
In recent years, Mal worked at the consultants, Marakon, were he was preparing to become a partner this year.
When Mal didn’t turn up for the Minotaurs reunion at the Bumps in 2006, some might have thought it was because he was too worried about wearing a blue blazer to the Dinner. However, he was scheduled to come but was by then battling with cancer and did not feel up to it.
Nevertheless, a few days after, he and Wendy were able to attend a performance of Cossi fan Tutti at Glyndebourne (pictured), with three Minotaurs (Messrs Arias, Schlich and Miller) and their other halves.
Mal really placed his trust in science. He was confident of pulling through until the very end and well aware that he was riding on a wave of new technology. For some time, he and others thought had caught the wave successfully, but he sadly had a relapse a few months ago. He was, however, thrilled to be able to marry Wendy at last on June 22 in the hospital.
Wendy supported Mike tirelessly to the very end and gave him great comfort and love. May we remember to support Wendy. She loved and cared for a great friend of ours – and Mike would want us to look after her now.
Mark Blackwell
James Miller
CharterhouseMike was supposed to complete his secondary education with Mr Schlich at the Royal Grammar School, Guildford but his parents moved to America so he had to transfer at short notice to a boarding school and chose Mr Miller’s establishment, the local arch-rivals Charterhouse.
Mike should have been a Charterhouse Foundation Scholar but he transferred in too late to take the exam; nevertheless, he jumped a year into the Remove 1A class, at the top of the year above the 4th form, with the twelve Scholars and twelve best pupils moving up from 4A.
At the Quarterly “calling over” in which the class was paraded in front of the Headmaster underneath the Charterhouse Oak, he was a regular performer in the top 5 in the class. Indeed, he did not make a mistake in maths for a long time, getting the reputation of being like a computer. When he did slip up, people said he had “mal-functioned” and he was for ever more known to Carthusians as “Mal”.
Mike Bradbury was a Sutton Prizewinner in 1985. He was also awarded the Eustace Dallin Wade prize for Physics in 1982 and the Poole Prize for Biology in 1983. He was Deputy Head of House and a Library Monitor
In the 6th form, Mal studied double maths, physics and chemistry. He took the 4th term entrance and received a “two Es” offer from Trinity. However, he passed out of school with a clean sheet of “four As and two Ones”.
The five other members of his tiny further maths class went up as follows: “Ows” Osborne, now in the family firm of civil engineers, Christchurch; “Gorm” Allen, now a partner at Goldman Sachs, Balliol; Nige Medhurst, now an accountant, Trinity; “Jimbo” Miller, St John’s; and Chris Doran, now Fellow and Director of Studies in Natural Sciences at Sidney Sussex, Sidney Sussex. The quite brilliant Alison “Baffy” Deans followed Mal up to Trinity and then McKinseys; and the crazy man of the bunch Dave “Hogman” Hodges went up to Magdalene then founded Pet Doctors.
Cambridge
Mal turned up at Trinity to read Natural Sciences but changed to Engineering on the first day. While at Trinity he became increasingly good at photography and had a go at rowing.
By now, the Minotaurs were in existence and Mal became wary of attending The Stomp for fear of being thrown into the canals at the back of the Colleges by his new band of Minotaur friends. Indeed, in one term he included a ringer from Magdalene in his gents boat, the very chunky vet and former Carthusian “Hogman”, and they made a good effort to throw Mr Miller in the canals on The Stomp.
Mal was not prone to horsing about all of the time – he failed to get high-billing on the night of the Old Carthusian Society raid on Oxford when his old school housemate “Gorm” took a ducking in the Christchurch fountain, “Hogman” was arrested for bicycle theft and Mr Miller narrowly escaped into Balliol - although while inter-railing Mal was unexpectedly arrested in France with “Hogman” and Mr Miller on the hopelessly French charge of “picnicking without wine on a 2CV bonnet in a public place”.
Towards the end of his time at Trinity, Mal became interested in manufacturing and management generally. He was often at St John’s and would have long discussions about management with Mr Blackwell for many years to come. He served with distinction as Best Man at Mr Blackwell’s first wedding.
Mike, Wendy, Natalie and David Hodges at Mark and Caroline's wedding
Years later Mike would also enjoy the friendship of Mark’s second wife, Caroline, especially at his home in Eye, Suffolk which he loved so much. After learning something of country ways Mal did finally realise why Mark was no longer in London at weekends during the 2001 Foot and Mouth crisis.
Joel and Billie Schlich, George Schlich, Caroline and Mark Blackwell, Mal
half way round the classic walk from Mike's house in Suffolk on his birthday last year
half way round the classic walk from Mike's house in Suffolk on his birthday last year
McKinsey & INSEAD
Upon Graduation, it could only be the best for Mal and he went to McKinsey, the blue bloods of management consultants. McKinsey paid for his MBA at INSEAD where his reputation for academic excellence continued – as well as his friendship. He remained very close to many of his INSEAD cohort in London for many years including Alex “Boo” Oliver, Andrew Brown, Arthur Smith, Francis Smulders, Karim Abboud, Omar Abbosh, Paul Owers and others the author has not had the pleasure of knowing.
Smallbone
After INSEAD, he took up the post of MD at Smallbones kitchens, where he met his wife-to-be Wendy Sage. Anyone would think that Mal would have whipped through the old-fashioned English kitchen furniture builders, Smallbones, with a vengeance, out-sourcing the manufacturing to the Far East, but not a bit of it. He could recognise quality when he saw it and how this could be interlinked with marketing: he was very proud to note many years after leaving Smallbones that their cabinets were still each built up one at a time, by hand, by an English craftsman in Devizes.
The last years
In recent years, Mal worked at the consultants, Marakon, were he was preparing to become a partner this year.
When Mal didn’t turn up for the Minotaurs reunion at the Bumps in 2006, some might have thought it was because he was too worried about wearing a blue blazer to the Dinner. However, he was scheduled to come but was by then battling with cancer and did not feel up to it.
Nevertheless, a few days after, he and Wendy were able to attend a performance of Cossi fan Tutti at Glyndebourne (pictured), with three Minotaurs (Messrs Arias, Schlich and Miller) and their other halves.Mal really placed his trust in science. He was confident of pulling through until the very end and well aware that he was riding on a wave of new technology. For some time, he and others thought had caught the wave successfully, but he sadly had a relapse a few months ago. He was, however, thrilled to be able to marry Wendy at last on June 22 in the hospital.
Wendy supported Mike tirelessly to the very end and gave him great comfort and love. May we remember to support Wendy. She loved and cared for a great friend of ours – and Mike would want us to look after her now.
Mark Blackwell
James Miller
Saturday, 15 September 2007
Young, Tanned, Slim Bradders
From Robert Dighero
Thank you Wendy for organising such a beautiful service – Mike would have been proud. The tributes caught Mike’s spirit perfectly – thank you Neal and Francis for sharing such personal memories. I would like to add just a few of my own.
I knew Mike for over 20 years – we were at university together, we shared our first post-student flat in London, he was godfather to Anna, my eldest daughter and over the years became one of my oldest friends.
He was exceptionally generous; he had an endless fascination in and enthusiasm for life. He was one of the smartest people I was fortunate enough to call a friend and he was a perfect godfather to my daughter.
In the last few years, with Wendy at his side, enjoying his work, his cottage in Suffolk and his gardening and in many, many other ways, he appeared to me to be someone who had found his place in life and was very, very content with it - in the end that’s how I will always remember him.
I dug out a couple of old photos of Mike from university which show him as I remember him.
Robert Dighero
Thank you Wendy for organising such a beautiful service – Mike would have been proud. The tributes caught Mike’s spirit perfectly – thank you Neal and Francis for sharing such personal memories. I would like to add just a few of my own.
I knew Mike for over 20 years – we were at university together, we shared our first post-student flat in London, he was godfather to Anna, my eldest daughter and over the years became one of my oldest friends.
He was exceptionally generous; he had an endless fascination in and enthusiasm for life. He was one of the smartest people I was fortunate enough to call a friend and he was a perfect godfather to my daughter.
- For those of us who knew him at university, Mike’s enthusiasm for life was already evident. I remember working with him on a manufacturing project, at the end of which he presented our results and eagerly explained to the factory management, who had probably worked there for twenty years, how they were basically doing everything wrong, but he could fix it for them... and of course he could.
- I remember Mike when we shared our first flat after leaving Cambridge. Every evening he would stretch out on a sofa out in front of the TV wearing his old brown dressing gown with a bottle of beer in his hand. Every night without fail he would fall asleep watching late night repeats of Star Trek, still on the sofa in his dressing gown, still holding the bottle of beer
- I remember one occasion a few years later he turned up for dinner brandishing a bottle of Champagne only for it to slip through his fingers and smash on the doorstep. He didn’t say a word, just turned and disappeared into the night. 10 minutes later he was back with a smile and more Champagne.
- And I remember how for our kids, a visit from Mike at Christmas really was Christmas Day all over again. He would arrive with a sack of presents and clearly took huge pleasure in handing out gift after gift and watching the smiles appear on everyone’s face – somehow I always thought Mike must have been Santa Claus in another life
In the last few years, with Wendy at his side, enjoying his work, his cottage in Suffolk and his gardening and in many, many other ways, he appeared to me to be someone who had found his place in life and was very, very content with it - in the end that’s how I will always remember him.
I dug out a couple of old photos of Mike from university which show him as I remember him.
Robert Dighero
Mike’s Sartorial Elegance
From Andrew Vickerstaff
I was glad to be able to join the “proper” funeral given to Mike earlier this month. All those involved should be commended for providing such a fine opportunity to both mourn Mike’s passing and celebrate his life.
I got to know Mike at Cambridge through the MET course and then Bradders, Diggers and Vickers shared a number of flats together in London for a couple of years. I have since dined out on many of the stories from that time together – Mike’s sartorial elegance whilst sporting a dressing gown and half empty can of lager is a particular high point.
We saw each other and spoke less frequently for the next few years as our lives headed in different directions. But Mike dropped me an email last year and we picked up as if we were still looking for something to eat in the fridge at Baron’s Bottom. Same Mike, same chat, same giggle, same sharp mind – so easy to talk and not realise you had been on the phone for 45 minutes.
We got together in May for a MET troops reunion in Hampstead (see picture). He looked so well and was on top form – back at work “80-90%” and I remember he said “if I get through the next 2 years with no recurrence then I have the same life chance as the next guy”. He had the risks well modelled and understood. How we wished for 2 more years!
I said goodbye to him in the Harley Street clinic in August on a flying visit while down south on holiday. The Krispy Kremes I brought raised a smile and Wendy, the rock, was there looking after all his other needs. My kids love those doughnuts but our nearest outlet is over 500 miles away. I would like to think that whenever and wherever they eat one in the future, their giggles will raise a memory and Mike will share one with us.
Andy Vickerstaff
Seallaidhmor
Gairloch
At approx. NG 803769
I was glad to be able to join the “proper” funeral given to Mike earlier this month. All those involved should be commended for providing such a fine opportunity to both mourn Mike’s passing and celebrate his life.
I got to know Mike at Cambridge through the MET course and then Bradders, Diggers and Vickers shared a number of flats together in London for a couple of years. I have since dined out on many of the stories from that time together – Mike’s sartorial elegance whilst sporting a dressing gown and half empty can of lager is a particular high point.
We saw each other and spoke less frequently for the next few years as our lives headed in different directions. But Mike dropped me an email last year and we picked up as if we were still looking for something to eat in the fridge at Baron’s Bottom. Same Mike, same chat, same giggle, same sharp mind – so easy to talk and not realise you had been on the phone for 45 minutes.
We got together in May for a MET troops reunion in Hampstead (see picture). He looked so well and was on top form – back at work “80-90%” and I remember he said “if I get through the next 2 years with no recurrence then I have the same life chance as the next guy”. He had the risks well modelled and understood. How we wished for 2 more years!I said goodbye to him in the Harley Street clinic in August on a flying visit while down south on holiday. The Krispy Kremes I brought raised a smile and Wendy, the rock, was there looking after all his other needs. My kids love those doughnuts but our nearest outlet is over 500 miles away. I would like to think that whenever and wherever they eat one in the future, their giggles will raise a memory and Mike will share one with us.
Andy Vickerstaff
Seallaidhmor
Gairloch
At approx. NG 803769
Thursday, 6 September 2007
Order of Service
Order of Service for the funeral of Michael John Bradbury
Tuesday 4th September 2007
St Michael's Church, Highgate
Pre Service Organ Music
JS Bach: Prelude and Fugue in C Major
Albinoni: Adagio for Organ
Mozart: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Romance
---
The Sentences
Tuesday 4th September 2007
St Michael's Church, Highgate
Pre Service Organ Music
JS Bach: Prelude and Fugue in C Major
Albinoni: Adagio for Organ
Mozart: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Romance
---
The Sentences
---
The Collect
---
Hymn: Psalm 23 (The Lord is My Shepherd)
---
Reading
"When I am Gone" Collius Norwood
read by Alex Oliver
When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do.
You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears.
I gave you my love, you can only guess how much.
You gave to me happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown.
But now it's time I travel on alone.
So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must.
But then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It's only for a while that we must part, so bless the memories within your heart.
I won't be far away, for life goes on.
Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near.
And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear all of my love around you loud and clear.
And then, when you come this way alone, I'll greet you with a smile and say, Welcome home.
---
Tribute: Neal Kissel
---
Israeli Folk Melody
"Hatvika" sung by Susannah Christie
---
Reading
"Said the Child" Dame Ninette de Valois
Read by Abbi Sage
I love you...
I shall love you as long as you live
And when you are dead
I shall love you as long as I live
And when I am dead
I shall love you as long as God lives.
When death passes by
There is rebirth of love,
Recurring, unswerving,
Philosophically wrought.
What more can God ask
Of the faithfull than this?
---
Tribute: Francis Smulders
---
Reading
"If I should Go" Joyce Glenfell
read by Arthur Smith
If I should go before the rest of you
Break not a flower nor inscribe a stone,
Nor when I'm gone speak in a Sunday voice.
But be the usual selves that I have known.
Weep if you must, parting is hell
But life goes on, so have a drink as well.
---
Hymn: Jerusalem
---
Scripture Reading
---
Address
---
The Prayers
---
Hymn: Thine be the Glory
---
The Commendation
---
Recessional
Handel: Largo from Xerxes
Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Tribute to Mike, delivered at his funeral by Francis Smulders
Mike Bradbury Tribute
September 4th
St Michael’s Church, Highgate
September 4th
St Michael’s Church, Highgate
The first time I met Mike was at a party at Insead in 1995. - We started talking about trivial things but very quickly our topic of discussion moved to Strategy. Not business strategy, but the strategy for finding a partner during our time at INSEAD. This, we thought, would be a welcome distraction from coursework. During our discussion it immediately became clear to me that Mike had a razorsharp mind and a great sense of humour. He made the following analysis of the situation;
- The INSEAD campus was not a particularly attractive market when looking for a partner,
- He also noted that I had a competitive disadvantage, not one but many
- Therefore, he recommended that I immediately should target the less popular segments. Speed was of the essence because the market was highly competitive and a number of fast followers were likely to follow quickly.
- Finally, he concluded, a more realistic strategy for me was to give up immediately.
This was typically Mike: He was a clear and structured thinker. He had a love of laughing. He was 'cheeky Bradders' with a mischievous, irreverent sense of fun. He loved to annoy us, say or do things he knew would wind us up, but also make us laugh because we knew he meant no harm.
After Insead many of us moved to London and Mike and I shared a flat on Tregunter road for over two years. We quickly became set in our ways. The set routine was to go to Brinkleys every evening for dinner – Mike’s choice was either the Steak Béarnaise or the Brinkley Burger. On weekends we would complement this diet with “proper” amounts of wine and cheese.
Mike had a love for what he would call a proper event: there were 'proper' dinner parties, with 'proper' food and 'proper' wine. We'd go away and stay in 'proper' houses, or have a sailing holiday in 'proper' yachts. We bought and ate 'proper' lobster, bigger than would fit in the pan.
Mike kept in close contact with a large group of friends. He was part of the 'glue' in the social fabric, and his passing leaves a gap. That gap is the bit that was 'Mike' and his role in the network of relationships that he formed. He was a great friend, you could rely on his advice, on having fun, and on him being there when you needed him.
He had genuine happiness when other people had found happiness. He had a particular joy in the giving of presents - every year he spent hours buying presents for his various God children and was really thoughtful on what he bought. In every way he was very generous; At times he would insist on treating everybody on an evening out for the simple reason that he enjoyed being with his friends.
Apart from being a friend in good times, you could always come to him if you had a problem or needed advice. Mike would always give an honest and straight answer on anything. He was very approachable and would always make time for you, even when he was very busy.
And busy he was most of the time: He got a set of almost straight 4’s at Insead and was awarded the Ford Prize. He was a mover and shaker at both McKinsey and Marakon. He became the managing director of Smallbone at the age of 30. Mike was one of those rare persons who had a vein of humility which was greatly at odds with his accomplishments
It was during our flat sharing days at Tregunter road that Mike met Wendy who worked with him at Smallbone. - I knew things had been going on between the two of them but had never managed to catch a glimpse of Wendy. Therefore, one day I forced myself into his room to introduce myself, - and although Wendy was trying to hide - she couldn’t escape this time. - From that day I had the pleasure of seeing Mike and Wendy growing closer and closer.
Although they started off slowly, Mike and Wendy quickly became inseparable, and very complementary in many ways. - Mike was organised, Wendy was wild. Mike went for logic, Wendy for intuition. Mike was corporate, Wendy bohemian. Mike owned one suitcase and his INSEAD binders, Wendy had a home.
It was clear to all that they had a very special and close relationship. As many of you know, Mike and Wendy married on the 22nd of June this year. I always knew Mike really loved Wendy, which he emphasized when Arthur and I were preparing Mike for the wedding. At that point he contemplated; – “I should have married Wendy a long time ago.”
Today I also want to pay a tribute to Wendy, who has done everything imaginable and more - to help, care for, support and love Mike during his fight with his disease. - You have done a wonderful job and we all have been amazed by your strength and devotion.
In Mike we lost a friend, a family member, a colleague, a stepfather and a husband. We will never know why he was the one who had to go at such a young age. Mike had already achieved much, but he had much more to do. We were all very privileged to have known Mike. He will be greatly missed.
Francis, with contributions from many of Mike's friends
Tuesday, 4 September 2007
Mike's courage, an example for us
From Morgane & Fred Bistagne
A year ago we had a great wedding in Amsterdam and spent dinner with Mike. He was alive and kicking and it was a beautiful party. He would not show that he was not in olympic shape.
Wendy told us he was fighting like hell this disease. This is how we want to remember him: brilliant and courageous, friendly and tenacious.
Have a great journey Mike Bradbury, we will always think of your example.
All our thoughts today are with Wendy, their families and friends.
Morgane & Fred
A year ago we had a great wedding in Amsterdam and spent dinner with Mike. He was alive and kicking and it was a beautiful party. He would not show that he was not in olympic shape.
Wendy told us he was fighting like hell this disease. This is how we want to remember him: brilliant and courageous, friendly and tenacious.
Have a great journey Mike Bradbury, we will always think of your example.
All our thoughts today are with Wendy, their families and friends.
Morgane & Fred
Monday, 3 September 2007
I will miss you, Bradders
From Samantha BurmanI studied at Cambridge with Mike in the Manufacturing Engineering group. For part of the year we drove around in blue vans trying to "save" British manufacturing and distribution sites. We stayed in dingy bed & breakfasts and worked with sometimes hostile management teams.
Mike never wavered in his sense of enthusiasm and fun. He was quick to dig into any problem or project, but equally quick to see the humor in the most trying situation.
Unfortunately, as often happens in life, I didn't talk with Mike much over the last 20 years. When I found out he was sick early this year, we started speaking a few times a month by phone. It was refreshing to hear that Mike was applying all his qualities to fight his illness. We quickly picked up where we left off.
When some of us had a small reunion in London on May 18th (see picture), we were all grateful for the chance to celebrate what seemed, at the time, Mike's victory. I wish I had given Mike one more hug.
Lastly, I wish I had met Wendy. We should all be so lucky as Mike was to have Wendy there until the very end.
Samantha
Saturday, 1 September 2007
Easier way to make a donation
From Francis Smulders
Please click on this link to download a form that will make it possible to make a payment by credit card or debit card, which will hopefully be easier for some of you. This form also allows UK taxpayers to make a donation under Gift Aid.
When filling-in the form, and to ensure that the money goes to the correct fund, please can you choose the 'Other Fund' box and state the following: 'John Gribben Cancer Immunotherapy Fund - 10049'
The forms can then be submitted either by post to:
Jenny Witherow, Major Gifts Manager
Barts and The London Charity
London
EC1A 9BU
or scanned and emailed to:
Jenny.Witherow@bartsandthelondon.nhs.uk
Francis
Please click on this link to download a form that will make it possible to make a payment by credit card or debit card, which will hopefully be easier for some of you. This form also allows UK taxpayers to make a donation under Gift Aid.
When filling-in the form, and to ensure that the money goes to the correct fund, please can you choose the 'Other Fund' box and state the following: 'John Gribben Cancer Immunotherapy Fund - 10049'
The forms can then be submitted either by post to:
Jenny Witherow, Major Gifts Manager
Barts and The London Charity
London
EC1A 9BU
or scanned and emailed to:
Jenny.Witherow@bartsandthelondon.nhs.uk
Francis
Friday, 31 August 2007
Great pasta sauce!
From Christoph Papst
There are three things I connect with Mike:
Mike was pretty independent on what other people thought about him.
He focused on learning (rather than on grades) and in a great way
he could be very casual and very straight at the same time.
And he cooked a great pasta sauce!
I'm sad that he left so early.
Best wishes to his family.
Christoph
There are three things I connect with Mike:
Mike was pretty independent on what other people thought about him.
He focused on learning (rather than on grades) and in a great way
he could be very casual and very straight at the same time.
And he cooked a great pasta sauce!
I'm sad that he left so early.
Best wishes to his family.
Christoph
The Giggle
From John Clarke
Mike was many things: the smartest person I knew, a supportive and encouraging friend, a true professional and a master of the affectionate tease.
But one thing marked Mike out: The Giggle
Whenever Mike's disarming frankness had stopped you in your tracks, he had gone on just a little too long about his latest passion, or one of his more ambitious teases had missed its mark - that little sideways look and The Giggle never failed to get you smiling.
And that's what I'll miss most about Mike.
John
Mike was many things: the smartest person I knew, a supportive and encouraging friend, a true professional and a master of the affectionate tease.
But one thing marked Mike out: The Giggle
Whenever Mike's disarming frankness had stopped you in your tracks, he had gone on just a little too long about his latest passion, or one of his more ambitious teases had missed its mark - that little sideways look and The Giggle never failed to get you smiling.
And that's what I'll miss most about Mike.
John
What I loved about Bradders
From Lindsey Pitt
What I loved about Bradders was his energy and enthusiasm, that direct way he had of saying exactly what he thought, and his cheerfulness. Even in the midst of his treatment, he was positive whenever we spoke. Bradders, I shall miss you.
I am currently in Japan and will not be able to join the service, but my thoughts are with Wendy, her children, Mike's parents and sisters. And all of his friends.
Lindsey
What I loved about Bradders was his energy and enthusiasm, that direct way he had of saying exactly what he thought, and his cheerfulness. Even in the midst of his treatment, he was positive whenever we spoke. Bradders, I shall miss you.
I am currently in Japan and will not be able to join the service, but my thoughts are with Wendy, her children, Mike's parents and sisters. And all of his friends.
Lindsey
Thursday, 30 August 2007
One of Life’s Truly Good Guys
From Malcolm Graham
Mike was the first person I met at Insead when I was looking for a house. I think he was there doing the dreaded French course and I remember sharing a few glasses of wine with him in the bar during December 1994.
My overriding memory is of a charming, kind and generous man which continues to this day. As we all know he had a towering intellect but was always incredibly modest in this regard.
It is absolutely tragic that Mike has lost his battle against cancer and my thoughts are with his family, Wendy and his many close friends who will read this blog.
Malcolm
Mike was the first person I met at Insead when I was looking for a house. I think he was there doing the dreaded French course and I remember sharing a few glasses of wine with him in the bar during December 1994.
My overriding memory is of a charming, kind and generous man which continues to this day. As we all know he had a towering intellect but was always incredibly modest in this regard.
It is absolutely tragic that Mike has lost his battle against cancer and my thoughts are with his family, Wendy and his many close friends who will read this blog.
Malcolm
Wednesday, 29 August 2007
Smiling and cheerful
From Andrea Giacomelli
I did not know about Mike's illness and am so very sad to hear that he left us.
I remember him being always smiling and cheerful.
May his soul rest in peace
Andrea
I did not know about Mike's illness and am so very sad to hear that he left us.
I remember him being always smiling and cheerful.
May his soul rest in peace
Andrea
What sad news
From Andrew Alli
Although I had known about Mike’s battle against cancer, it was really sad news to hear that he had succumbed. I remember Mike as such a vital person who was the life and soul wherever he was. I do hope that his family and friends will take solace from what Mike achieved during his life. Unfortunately, as I am currently in Lagos, I will not be able to make it to the funeral but my thoughts will be with him and all of you.
Andrew Alli
Although I had known about Mike’s battle against cancer, it was really sad news to hear that he had succumbed. I remember Mike as such a vital person who was the life and soul wherever he was. I do hope that his family and friends will take solace from what Mike achieved during his life. Unfortunately, as I am currently in Lagos, I will not be able to make it to the funeral but my thoughts will be with him and all of you.
Andrew Alli
Mike's Grade Point Average
From James Maughan
When I first met Mike after some exams at Insead, he modestly revealed that he had not actually opened the envelope with his grades. He managed to keep his nerve and accumulate unopened grade envelopes all year til they informed him he was joint top of our class with Andrew Alli.
He was a very modest guy and his friendly, easy going style balanced his great intellect.
May he truly rest in peace, and we will always remember him.
James
When I first met Mike after some exams at Insead, he modestly revealed that he had not actually opened the envelope with his grades. He managed to keep his nerve and accumulate unopened grade envelopes all year til they informed him he was joint top of our class with Andrew Alli.
He was a very modest guy and his friendly, easy going style balanced his great intellect.
May he truly rest in peace, and we will always remember him.
James
Funeral arrangements
All are welcome: Tuesday, September 4th, 3.00 pm at St Michael’s Church, South Grove, Highgate, London N6 6BJ. Click here for a map.
The burial will take place at Highgate Cemetery, Swains Lane, London N6 6PJ
There will be a reception at Lauderdale House, Highgate Hill, Waterlow Park, London N6 5HG at 5.00 pm.
Flowers
Should you wish to send flowers (to arrive before 10am on Tuesday), please address them to:Demetriou & English, Funeral Directors, 131-133 Myddleton Road, London N22 8NG
Telephone +44 20 8889 9888
Donations
Should you wish to make a donation, please do so to Lymphoma Research
and send it to: John Gribben, Barts and London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, EC1M 6BQ.
Tuesday, 28 August 2007
Very very sad news
From Robert Dighero
I have very very sad news - after his long struggle, Bradders died on Saturday.
It had been clear for a number of days that the chemotherapy was no longer able to control the cancer and a week or so ago the doctors stopped treating him.
His last week was largely sleeping and dozing and I understand he was comfortable and not in pain. He only wished to see Wendy who was with him at the end.
The funeral will probably be early next week in Highgate and Wendy asked me to let you know that everyone is welcome.
Robert
I have very very sad news - after his long struggle, Bradders died on Saturday.
It had been clear for a number of days that the chemotherapy was no longer able to control the cancer and a week or so ago the doctors stopped treating him.
His last week was largely sleeping and dozing and I understand he was comfortable and not in pain. He only wished to see Wendy who was with him at the end.
The funeral will probably be early next week in Highgate and Wendy asked me to let you know that everyone is welcome.
Robert
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