Today my dear friend Michelle passed away.  I’ve known Michelle just over seven years and have always adored her.  We shared an office together during my first five years in the mortgage industry, she was my processor and right (and left) hand.

Not only did she teach me almost everything I know about mortgage, she has taught me about life.  During her last three years battling breast cancer, she taught me the most important lessons ever on how to live.   She was determined to win this battle up to her last days.   She laughed in the face of the dispare.  She is dignified, beautiful and brave.  Michelle was selfless and a friend to all.  I miss her.   Michelle Brown, may you rest in peace.

Michelle is pictured here with her husband, Robert.   Michelle also leaves behind her Mom, Dad, Brother and countless friends.

I was very fortunate in my real estate career to have worked with many talented people. I began at Safeco Title in 1986…one year later, Chicago Title Insurance Company purchased Safeco and that’s when I first met John Wickwire.   I was maybe 19 or 20 years old and worked in the title unit that was next door to “Unit 2”, where John was in command.   After a few years of being a Title Technician, I begged and pleaded to become a sales person (management wanted me to be at least 21 years old)…after a year as a home equity rep, I had the opportunity to call on mortgage and escrow companies in south west King County.  With all of John’s years in the title biz, we wound up sharing many accounts together. [Read more…]