CROSS, Michael Edward

Michael was a man of many 'families'. He longed for deep connection in his life, forming 'chosen' families as he went.

To Dorothy, and Les Harwood (Dec) Michael was a wonderful son in law, full of life and compassion, and like Les, a keen raconteur.

To Kasey, Michael was always her much-loved brother in law. Becoming closer over the past few years, he shared stories about growing up in Templestowe. They talked animatedly about the area he'd known, explored and ranged as a boy, and the changes since, as Kasey finally found her home on Templestowe's doorstep. When Kasey sent the rest of her family generously oversized, plush, 'hoodies' this last winter, she sent a few to Michael also. 'He's family, of course I want him to be warm and cosy.'

Michael connected with Piper Harwood from earliest signs and stages of her life. He was her step(up) dad, and was instrumental in many of her 'firsts' (bike riding, surfing- the 'Tahitian Princess' burned in our memories and family 'lore', driving lessons, good thing the ditch in Longford was simply ornamental, karaoke sessions, and pranking tourists at The Gorge, whoopie cushions were very popular for a while, bushwalking, snorkelling, the list of adventures go on.

And as these things go, 'no good deed goes unpunished' as they say, Piper treated Michael to some firsts of his own. The chairlift at The Gorge features large, as does his amazing determination to overcome his lifelong fear of heights and vertigo, conquering together the scaling and exploration of Sigyria ('Lion Rock') in a life changing journey to Sri Lanka.

He stood by her, supporting and encouraging her, as she went from babe in arms, to curious toddler, from schoolgirl to college student, and to fledgling young adult.

In the most beautiful and poignant of the cycle of lives beginning, and lives ending, Piper was there, with, and for Michael. Loving him truly and deeply, providing comfort and a voice for him, spending time together, just the two of them, as he was on his final journey. A 'Timeless Cycle', as written about by Michael.

To Shannon Harwood, Michael was the truest and most loyal friend for several decades, evolving over the years, to become one of loving soulmates and deepest of companions. Shannon and Michael were each other's sounding boards, fierce advocates and playmates.

Michael, yarn-spinner, dream-weaver, and balladeer, thank you for making us Harwoods one of your 'chosen families', for 'our song' and our lives together. Soar free