Mike Hardwick

Michael Rowland Hardwick passed away on Tuesday, February 19, 2019 in Norman, Oklahoma. He leaves his wife Lynda Hardwick; sons, Daniel Hardwick and former wife, Ashleigh; Sean Hardwick and partner Shandi Norris; stepsons Dylan and Heath Mackey; grandchildren Logan, Kadynn, Harper, and Mara; mother, Mary Lou Hardwick; brother Chris Hardwick and wife Sandy; Sandy's twin Robin Tullius-Britt and husband, Sam; nieces and nephews Kelli Hardwick and husband Jesus Quintero Reyes, Jack and Will Hardwick; Sydni and Jack Wilson; Aunt Gayle Hardwick Portwood and husband Jay; and numerous additional nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, William Hugh Hardwick; grandparents Edgar and Beatrice Hardwick; John Burl and Louise Hickman Rowland. He was born August 21, 1951 to Bill and Mary Lou Hardwick in Norman, OK and was a lifelong resident of Norman. Active in scouting, he received his Eagle Scout in 1966. He attended Norman High School; he was on the swim team and graduated in 1969; he was looking forward to celebrating his 50th class reunion this summer. Music was truly the first love of Mike's life beginning at a young age. Extremely talented, he was performing with the O.U. orchestra while still in high school. He played in the band studying under Harry Haines and was very proud of the accomplishments achieved there. He began attending the University of Oklahoma upon graduation studying percussion for the symphony. After several years, he opted instead for a detour, choosing to tour with rock and country bands. He later returned to the University in the art school studying film and video and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1994. He was an avid OU sports fan. He also joined his father and brother as a Residential Real Estate Appraiser and enjoyed that career until his passing. Mike loved all things of "the Arts"; he performed in numerous bands of various genres throughout his life using his talent of playing musical instruments as well as his beautiful singing voice. He also loved the theater which included not only watching numerous plays and movies, but also participating in community theater in Oklahoma City, Norman and Guthrie. Even so, his real genius was making those around him shine brighter. He loved people and life, including animals of all kinds, and was known for his kindness, patience, love of laughter, adventure, and fellowship. Witty and quick, he was always able to bring a smile out and raise the spirits of anyone he encountered. Mike made a positive, sometimes life-saving difference in those he touched. Mike spent his entire life in relationship with others and devoted to his family. In 2013 he married his wife Lynda a second time; married previously in the 90s, they discovered their love for each other had never died and had, in fact, grown stronger. Theirs was an active life centered around their grandchildren and family. Mike was especially close to his granddaughter, Harper, and was thrilled to share his love of the arts with her. In December they performed in The Sooner Theater's production of "A Christmas Story" together. A Celebration of Life honoring the life of Michael Hardwick, will be held on Saturday, March 30 at the First United Methodist Church, Christian Life Center, 201 W Main St in Moore, OK from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. This is a potluck event; food will be received at 2:30; service at 3 and reception immediately after. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation in Mike's name to The Sooner Theater, The American Heart Association or a charity of your choice