I want to acknowledge a good journo and a good guy, a gentleman, who recently passed, suddenly and much too soon. Michael Yiannakis was a fellow in journalism and then corporate comms, He had a great career spanning prestigious mastheads and vibrant cities. He’s also the husband of my dear friend, another great journalist, Andreea Papuc, who now edits Bloomberg Opinion pieces from Sydney.
When bad things happen to good people, people you have grown up with, literally and professionally, it’s a wake-up call.
I was so busy building my career interstate and then oversees to get home for significant events like friends’ weddings and new babies. Now, I’m tuning in online to funerals.
The only upside of terrible, life-changing events is that it brings us together to reminisce and realise that strong bonds won’t be broken by time. I’m vowing to do better for my friends before it’s too late.
Vale Michael.
You have summed it up so well. I got to know
Michael at Macquarie University and even after he left kept giving me feedback and tips on engaging with the media. I was fortunate to make it to his funeral in person and sorry that you were not in a position to do the same. It’s been a few weeks and I keep getting flashbacks everyday. His loss has really impacted me. Hopefully time will heal.
Thank you for sharing Luion. At times like these i do think connecting with people is the only way through – celebrating Michael and sharing stories. Andreea and I had a bittersweet conversation – sharing memories and laughter. Her life must go on. I couldn’t make the funeral but I plan to travel soon to spend time with Andreea when her life settles into a new normal xLee
Michael and I worked together at the Wall St Journal in Hong Kong. Despite me working on the commercial side of the business (the dark side!!) we instantly hit it off. There was no airs and graces. Michael was smart, funny, and wonderful company. I will miss him so very much. RIP mate. And my condolences to his wife and daughters. Phil Owens in the UK
Thank you for your comment, Phil. I’ll pass along to Michael’s family xLee
Thank you Lee for sharing. Luion, who I met at the funeral, and Phil for jumping in too, I appreciate your sentiments.
It’s just too sad.
His family in Perth miss him dearly.
Mike’s brother John.
Thank you, John. So terribly sad. I spent some time this weekend with Andreea, which was wonderful – she is so strong and a pillar of strength for the girls.
I’ve only just come across your tribute, and want to thank you for capturing Michael as terrific bloke and fantastic journo. We had a couple of years together at Macquarie Uni and we got on famously from day one. I relied on him professionally and admired the family man he was personally. His love for his wife and daughters was present always.
I miss him at work each day.
Angie
Thank you Angie for sharing. I’ll pass your words on to Andreea and the girls.
Best
Lee