1970 – 2013

YOKOHAMA, Japan — Michael Edward Given, 43, of Bath, passed away unexpectedly while traveling in Yokohama, Japan, on Tuesday, Aug. 27.

Born in Lewiston on June 27, 1970, he attended Lewiston High School and graduated from Hebron Academy. Michael continued on to receive his B.S. degree in business from the University of Maine at Orono, where he was active in the fraternity Tau Kappa Epsilon. He graduated in 1995. During this time, he spent summers working in Bar Harbor, and hiked and biked most of the trails at Acadia National Park.

For a short time, he worked in the family video distribution business. Michael enjoyed working with his hands and spent the majority of his career as a skilled carpenter, including building several homes in the Portland area, building the family house on Range Pond and renovating his own home in Bath. Michael spent two years in Spain teaching English to professionals.

He began traveling while in high school, spending two summers exploring countries throughout Europe with the family’s former Danish exchange student. Later, he traveled with family or friends throughout the United States, Iceland, Europe, Africa, Canada, Bermuda and New Zealand to hike, ski and meet new friends.

He was a lifelong outdoor enthusiast and an Eagle Scout. He played baseball and soccer in his youth, and continued his love of sports as an avid New England sports fan and World Cup soccer. He hiked along the Appalachian Trail, canoed on the Allagash and kayaked along the coast of Maine. He was a great, young ski racer and later enjoyed ski trips throughout the United States.

He enjoyed spending time with his friends kayaking, skiing, playing music, camping and hiking. He was an avid follower of international politics and the stock market.

He was the beloved uncle of his two nieces, who adored him and he could bring a smile and laughter that no one else could. He created room makeovers for them with his carpentry and design skills, and most importantly shared time with them, keeping up on all their current activities and creating an everlasting bond.

Michael will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Edward and Madelyn Given of Poland; his sister, Heather G. Bell; brother-in-law, Scott Bell; and his beloved nieces, Morgan, 10, and Madison, 7, of Newton, N.H. Michael will also be forever remembered by his many dear friends.

His warm, compassionate spirit and generosity to others will always be remembered. He listened with his heart and spoke the truth. He will be greatly missed.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with his family on line at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.