Stephanie Sprinkle

Well, I did know about Mike's passing but didn't realize he was a classmate. In a round-about way, we were in-laws. My cousin, Heather Deitz, was step-mother to Mike's daughter-in-law, Kimmi - Doug's wife.  I remember that he was suffering from several major health issues for some time and had been living with Doug and Kimmi until his death.  Had no idea of the connection and don't remember what the specific health problems were.  Diabetes, I think, and possibly cancer.  Yes, he was very loved by his family and they were all devistated at his loss.  Dakota has been racing since he was a little kid and his other grandpa, Vernon Deitz (Heather's husband and Kimmi's dad) is well-known at the Speedway, as well as Kimmi's step-brother, Ricky "The Kid" Deitz.

I dare you all to try tracking this family tree. :) 

Posted on: Jan 29, 2015 at 9:26 AM

I am so sorry for your loss of Ken. We went to Meridian Elementary together and maybe Cordell Hull - I'd have to look at the annuals, and Shorecrest, of course. I noticed that he'd joined the group in December but didn't say anything. Have read some of the comments on the online memorial and wish we'd gotten to know him as an adult.