Michael Warran James
Michael and his three children, Kristen, Michael, and Tara
“When you’re 10, I’ll take you to get as much ice cream as you want,” Michael once promised his young children. And true to his word, when his son Michael reached that milestone birthday, the family went to Baskin Robbins. His son ordered an ice cream sundae—then went back for seconds. Though his mother objected, Michael only smiled and said, “A deal is a deal. He can eat as much as he wants!”
Michael with his grand daughters
That was the kind of father Michael was—active, playful, reliable, and endlessly present. In the early 90s, on Friday nights he could often be found at the local mall, patiently waiting while his daughters Kristen and Tara shopped. Tara especially loved receiving school projects, because she knew her dad’s creativity, enthusiasm, and sense of pride would help her turn every assignment into something special. At home, he played elaborate games of hide-and-seek, shutting off all the lights in the house and startling the kids by sitting calmly in the living room watching TV, insisting he had “been here the whole time.” Young at heart, he was often the only adult outside playing kickball or baseball with a pack of neighborhood kids.
Michael built a career as a project manager for a construction company, and carpentry became both a skill and a passion. His son frequently accompanied him on side jobs, spending countless hours learning from him, working beside him, and deepening their bond. Their dynamic grew and changed over the years—until one day, when the roles had clearly shifted, his son Michael shouted, “Hold it up!” Hearing his own words reflected back at him, Michael laughed and said, “Is that how I was all these years? I apologize!”
After his MS diagnosis, Michael embraced new forms of expression and peace. He took up painting and meditation, pouring his artistic spirit into every brushstroke while listening to music. Through every phase of his illness, he remained deeply connected to his children—always ready to listen, always offering comfort. Even when his physical health declined further and he later received a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, his gratitude did not waver. He cherished every positive moment, especially those shared with his grandchildren and stories of their achievements.
Painting by Michael Warran James
As he learned more about emerging research, Michael followed updates from the MS Society with great interest. When he discovered the possibility of donating to advance MS research, he knew immediately he wanted to contribute—believing that his rare form of MS could offer something especially valuable. In doing so, he extended his lifelong generosity beyond his own family, offering hope and knowledge to countless others.
Michael gave his loved ones unwavering attention, joy, and generosity of spirit. And now, through his final gift, he has ensured that other families may receive the same.
