Michael James Dunlap
Michael was born on September 12, 1988. He was the baby of the family with 2 older siblings, Bryan and Jen. Michael went to Marion Catholic High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in business at Southern Illinois University . Michael was the life of the party and loved by so many. One of his greatest passions was music. His friends can hardly tell a story that doesn’t involve him blaring music in the car, at home or at a party. No matter where he was though, he was always dancing right along with it. After college he went on to become an award winning jewelry designer. He managed businesses and helped create and was co-owner of a concierge company. He had a knack for influencing people. Maybe it was because his smile could light up a room, or because to hear him laugh could change everything about your day. Most likely though, it was because he was incredibly direct. When he gave you praise you knew it was sincere and it pushed you to want to do more. He was kind and compassionate, energetic and enthusiastic, and at times frustrating and stubborn. When he got his mind set on something he never wavered. He advocated for those he loved and for those who were struggling.
Michael was many things. He was….
a son,
My name is Carla Lazara. I am a board member of the Michael James Foundation. I am Michael’s mother.
a brother,
We are Jen Walters and Bryan Dunlap. We are board members of the Michael James Foundation. We are Michael’s sister and brother.
a nephew,
My name is Sue Rea. I am a board member of the Michael James Foundation. I am Michael’s Aunt.
a friend,
My name is Jerrod Walters. I am a board member of the Michael James Foundation. I am Michael’s best friend.
and a partner.
My name is Les Carden. I am a board member of the Michael James Foundation. I am Michael’s partner.
Michael was all these things
and so much more.
Michael was a member of the LGBTQ community and someone who struggled daily with addiction and mental health issues. He wasn’t always comfortable admitting to his addiction or mental health issues. Like so many who walk the same path as Michael, he also suffered under the stigma that society places on members of these communities. However, Michael was a fighter who found peace, comfort and strength in connecting with and helping others like himself.
The Michael James Foundation was formed after Michael’s life was tragically cut short on March 29, 2019. Michael died of an overdose after giving in to his addiction one time more than his body was able to handle. He didn’t want to die, wasn’t trying to die because, like all of us, Michael had plans, a future, and dreams for his life. Unfortunately addiction doesn’t care about any of that. It is a deadly disease that robs us all of plans, futures, dreams and, far too often, someone we dearly love.
Before he passed, Michael rode his bike from Chicago, IL to Baltimore, MD. to raise money and awareness for a foundation that supports individuals struggling with mental illness. He raised over $2,000 in donations. We formed the Michael James Foundation to honor his memory and to ensure the continuation of Michael’s desire to help others who struggle.
Grief never ends…but it changes.
It’s a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, not a lack of faith…It is the price of love.