Why We Walk
July 7, 1980 – March 27, 2009
On July 7, 1980, John and Melody Haynes welcomed their first child, Michael Warren Haynes, to their family in Westlake, California. Before too long, the Haynes’ completed their family by bringing Michael’s sister, JoAnna, and brother, Matthew, home. Michael had a wonderful childhood and dreamed of working and creating for Lego when he grew up. He was an artistic genius – although he seldom used his skills – and was a true athlete whose love of running earned him the nickname Gazelle and he was a great shot with both a bow and a rifle. Michael loved to play chess and would win most of the time. He had an amazing smile and his laugh was contagious to everyone around him.
After tiring of Southern California’s smog and hustle & bustle, Michael’s parents moved their young family to Kalispell, Montana – leaving Michael’s grandparents, aunt, and uncles behind in California. Although Michael moved to Montana, he eventually returned to California after high school to work at Hume Lake Christian Camp, just outside of Fresno. It was while working at Hume Lake, that Michael met the love of his life, and future wife, Tawny Schmitz.
Michael went on to serve his country in the United States Army. During his time in the service, he asked Tawny’s mother, Laurie, for Tawny’s hand in marriage. On March 15, 2004, Michael and Tawny married in a civil ceremony in Kalispell and just over a month later, on April 24, 2004, had a beautiful family celebration at Tawney’s childhood home in Kingsburg, California. The newlyweds returned to Kalispell to start their family and soon became parents when they welcomed a beautiful little girl, Taryn. While Michael was able to be home for his daughter’s birth, two weeks later, his service to our country sent him back to Iraq, leaving his wife and newborn daughter behind.
After being honorably discharged from the Army, Michael and Tawny went on to add a son, Elias, to their family. Michael’s dedication to his community led him to join the Montana Highway Patrol, where he served the state of Montana with the same pride, courage, and integrity that he displayed in the Army. After encountering a DUI crash while on the job, Michael’s passion was to get drunk drivers off of the roads and to work to eliminate underage drinking.
On March 23, 2009, Michael was hit head-on by a drunk driver while in the Line of Duty in Kalispell, Montana. Four days later, on March 27, 2009, Michael passed away due to his injuries. Michael left behind his wife, 3 year old daughter, 16 month old son, parents, siblings, and in-laws. His tragic death has left his family missing him more than their hearts can bear some days, but they have found peace in knowing that they will see him again. Michael loved God, his family, and his country. His life, love, and service touched the lives of so many and he can never be replaced. Michael will be loved and missed and remembered, always.
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