Michael Louis McKenzie was born on October 14th, 1964, to Patricia Lemons and William Louis McKenzie. He had a tumultuous childhood and charged into his youth headfirst. He rode motorcycles, listened to punk rock, and was a larger than life personality with irresistible magnetism that drew people to him.
Shortly after the birth of his daughter, Tressa, he dropped his first name and went by Louis. It was a fresh start for him, in some ways.
He was still the life of the party, but he took fatherhood seriously, became a skilled licensed contractor and started his own business, and dove into the pursuit of the great outdoors. From car camping to backpacking, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing and ice climbing - he did it all.
He met Karen Campbell and after some time apart, they reconnected and eventually married. They bought a beat up little house, tore it down to the studs and built a home with brightly colored walls and succulents everywhere.
He also embarked on a lifelong spiritual journey. He would shout along to the loudest rock n roll songs, slapping his steering wheel to the beat, but he would also meditate, explore philosophy, practice mindfulness and breathwork. He led men’s groups at the Center for Spiritual Living and became an unusual yet integral part of that community, including volunteering with the teen group and building the new Center.
Louis always had health issues. He almost died when he was three years old of a rare condition that made his body incapable of fighting disease, but with excruciating monthly injections, he lived. When his liver started failing, Karen was at his side, pressing the doctors to take his symptoms seriously. He finally received a liver transplant.
He was encouraged to learn a new trade after that. Something that wasn’t so physical - he considered architecture but at the last minute he changed his mind. He didn’t want to sit at a desk, so he went back to school and got a certificate in sustainable agriculture. He bought a little chunk of land, and he turned it into a farm, Twin Palms Ranch. He grew vegetables and had llamas, chickens, ducks, geese, sheep, and of course, his dogs.
Louis’ physical issues continued but he was happy to see his daughter marry, and meet his two grandsons, Wiley and Ezra. He spent his days filled with hard work, enriching fun and surrounded by family and friends.
Louis was, and will forever remain, a pivotal figure in our community heritage and in the lives of those he touched. His adventurous spirit, and tireless dedication were a blessing to everyone who knew him.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Karen McKenzie, and his daughter, Tressa Fessenden-McKenzie, during this time of transition.
Thank you, Louis, for building our spiritual home and infusing it with your love and passion.
All are invited to attend the Celebration of Life for Louis McKenzie:
Saturday August 10th at 11 am
Center for Spiritual Living, 2075 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa, Ca 95401
No comments:
Post a Comment