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Ed and Ruth Banagan posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
“Silence…speaking, planting, reaping, giving, taking, laughing, weeping…each one has its season and its special time to be.”
Michele was God’s special gift to us of everlasting life.
Her radiant smiles, laugher, love of family and friends, endless support, and purposes will live on in our treasured memories and way of life.
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Brent Koenig uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
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I first met Michele the weekend she married Kim. It was a memorable weekend and ever since then, whenever Tom Petty’s “Hear Comes My Girl” comes on the radio, I think of that weekend and Michele’s radiant smile as she walked down the aisle towards Kim. Our second meeting was four years later in San Diego when Kim, Michele and a very young Tyler joined us for our wedding in 2011. The distance between us limited our getting to know Michele better to phone call updates from Kim, but when the entire family stayed with us on another trip to San Diego in 2019, we got to really enjoy Michele’s amazing personality and see the incredible mark she was making on Tyler and Fletcher. Three years would pass before we saw the entire Parkins family again at their home, and they got to meet our daughter Zoe for the first time. Being in their presence was a joy and a memory to last. Michele will be greatly missed, but the joy and love she shared with so many will remain. Sending the entire family our love and condolences. Brent, MaryBeth and Zoe
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Courtney Anderson uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
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Michele and I have been friends since we were 10 years old. Thinking back on 36 years of memories, it is difficult to think of just one favorite. How do I choose just one memory out of thousands? I have a plethora of memories, but one of my favorites was from early on in our friendship. Michele and I first met when she moved to Mt. Arlington during the summer before 4th grade, into the house directly next door to my neighborhood beach. We spent summer after summer swimming, boating, and bun bathing at her house or my beach. During one of those early summers, maybe the very first one, Michele was determined for us to spend all day on her dock getting a tan, and she insisted that we don’t go swimming. No matter how hot she got, she did not jump in the water. I, on the other hand, could not stand the heat and had to jump in. I ended up with a massive sunburn, but it was worth it for the memory. I’m not sure why that memory jumps out at me so much, but I think it does say a lot about Michele’s personality. She has always been determined to achieve her goals, even if it is just getting a suntan (or sunburn). Even way back then, she pushed herself and achieved her goals, however silly or small they were.
As we grew up and she moved to Florida, we stayed in touch by writing actual letters to each other, which I still have. I will forever cherish those letters. We went from little girls to grown women and experienced all of life’s obstacles and triumphs together, as friends. I love you, Michele, and will always hold dear to me our many years of friendship, and I will miss you forever.
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LeeAnn Moore uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
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Q: How did you meet Michele?
A: I met Michele when I reached out to her after she posted info on Facebook about Great Kids Place. My son was 7 and in need of an OT. We began therapy with Michele shortly after and it was my son’s most favorite place on earth. To spend an hour playing with Michele twice a week was his favorite thing to do. She engaged him with some of his favorite toys which she incorporated into his therapy ( stuffed animals). She had the patience of a saint and was so knowledgeable about ways to engage with him. They played and laughed, it was fun to watch and witness her help him in ways that were just so fun for him. We spent over a year with Michele and we truly loved her. We are forever changed for having known her, loved her, learned from her and laughed with her. Her vision for her Great Kids is unmatched by any other OT center on earth. We loved her warmth, her laugh and giggle, her smile, her being. We are heartbroken at her loss and she will forever be in my heart and his. I am thankful for the gift of herself that she so kindly shared with us. Her memory is a cherished part of his childhood for the both of us. Sending love to her family, thank you for allowing her to be in our lives. LeeAnn and Austin Moore
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Danielle & Ray Adams posted a condolence
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Not a moment goes by that we don’t think about your beautiful spirit, your kind heart, and the way you lit up every room you walked into.
You weren’t just family—a source of strength, a guiding light, and someone who always made time for others, no matter what you were going through. You gave so much love, and your kindness touched more lives than we can count. We’re so proud of the person you were—generous, caring, funny, and so full of heart.
You helped so many people. Whether with your words, your support, or just being there with a smile and open arms, you made everyone feel seen and loved. We’ll always carry that with us. You made our lives brighter, and that light still shines in everything we do.
It’s hard to imagine the world without you, but we know you’re still with us in your own way—in the quiet moments, in the laughter we share, and in the memories that bring both tears and smiles. You’ll always be part of us, and we’ll never stop honoring your legacy.
Give Grandma and Grandpa a big hug from us!
Love always and forever
Danielle and Ray
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Marion Adams posted a condolence
Sunday, July 27, 2025
There's one thing we want you to know, you have been such a shinning star in our lives, you have given us moments of laughter and memories that warm our hearts, a niece who is an absolute treasure and joy to be with from the start.
Time has passed much to quickly, we are grateful and so proud to see the beautiful women you have become. your brilliance and kindness light up lives, you have a heart full of compassion and kindness, your acts of love made the world a better place.
Of all the special gifts in life how ever great or small, to have you as our niece was the greatest gift of all.
Love and miss you,
Aunt Marion and Uncle Len
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Rena Mirza posted a condolence
Friday, July 25, 2025
I reached out to Michele when Isabella was just 16 months old, desperate to get her the appropriate care I knew she needed. She had already been receiving Early Intervention Services (which were fantastic, and I am forever grateful for those involved in her care), but I knew she needed something more. When Michele learned of Isabella’s history, she immediately fit her in for an evaluation- no waitlists and without reservation. One of the defining moments of our first visit, and one that will forever remain in our hearts was when she said, “Something told me I had to help this one when I read her story.”
From then on, Michele remained deeply invested in Bella’s care. She orchestrated every aspect - from attending Early Intervention meetings to obtaining insurance approvals (and we all know how difficult insurance can be) there wasn’t anything Michele wouldn’t do for our daughter. One of the greatest gifts she has given us, however, was assigning AnnMarie as her Primary OT. She became our rock. She helped Bella achieve milestones that were once only hopes and prayers. Most importantly, she believed me. She saw what I saw. She knew what I knew. She fought for us BOTH and continues to do so today. All of this to say- Michele knew from the very beginning….“I know we can help her. She’s going to be the one that never leaves your heart.” Well, dear Michele, you will never leave our hearts. Thank you for everything that you have done for our family. Bella’s future is extra bright because of you.
Love,
The Mirza Family.
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Gina Racz posted a condolence
Friday, July 25, 2025
Q: What was Michele really good at?
A: As a parent at Great Kids Place, I knew I was in good hands from the moment I met Michele. She understood children in the way that parents needed her to, with compassion, insight, and unwavering belief in their potential.
Her ability to connect with both my son Miles and me left me completely at ease and confident that GKP was the right place for us. When she wasn’t able to be Miles’ OT, I felt some worry—but I trusted her, that she had perfect match for him. And she was right.
Every time I walked into GKP, I was struck by how much care Michele put into every detail. It was so clear how deeply she believed in her mission and how much love she poured into everything she built.
I feel a profound loss knowing she is no longer with us. Michele will always be a guiding light to the families she touched, especially her own. Her legacy will live on in every child she helped and every parent she supported. She will be remembered in our house always.
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Gopika Sharma posted a condolence
Friday, July 25, 2025
Michele evaluated our son a year ago, and since then changed our lives. I attended her parent group every month and always learned something from her. I use her practices and tips daily as a mother. The last call we all cried and Michele cried with us, that is how much she cared for her families and her work. It showed and it was deeply felt. I will miss her so much and sending so much love and condolences to her whole family.
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Coach Viv and Sid ordonez posted a condolence
Friday, July 25, 2025
Although we never had the chance to meet Michelle, my husband and I had the privilege of coaching her daughter Tyler and getting to know Kim. Through them, its clear what a strong and loving presence she must have been. Tyler's spirit, perseverance, and kindness are a reflection of the values her mother instilled. Our thoughts are with the her whole family during this difficult time. I hope they find comfort in the deep impact she's had on those around her.
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Melanie Ellis uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 24, 2025
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I can hear her laugh in these pictures. Michele was an absolute light in our lives when we didn’t truly even know we needed her. May her memory live on in all the children that she has touched over the years, including and most importantly, Tyler and Fletcher. Sending the whole family our love and condolences.
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The Cantrella Family uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 24, 2025
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This candid photo from early 2007 captures Michele perfectly, always smiling, always genuine, always supporting. We had just brought home a new puppy, and she was the first one there to play with him and show us what to do.
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Jaime Staehle uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 24, 2025
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One of my favorite photos of the ML wives at Mess and Lisa’s wedding in 2009 ❤️. Michele is right in the center!
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Jeffrey, Whitney, and Daxton Mensch uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 24, 2025
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It’s incredibly difficult to put into words what Michele has meant to our family. Dax began attending sessions with Michele at GKP when he was just three years old, and she quickly became the catalyst for so many of his “firsts.”
We often called her—without irony—the nicest person we’ve ever met, and we truly believe that in our hearts. Her kindness, warmth, and contagious smile brightened our days, no matter what challenges we were facing.
Michele had a profound impact on all of us—not just Dax. She helped shape the thoughtful, curious 10-year-old he is today. I’ll never forget her endless patience as Dax explained every single detail of a new Fortnite update or recounted the plot of the latest superhero movie (sometimes one of his own creation).
Her compassion, unwavering patience, and genuine care will always stay with us. We will miss her deeply and send our heartfelt condolences to her family.
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Lisa Vannatta uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
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Kristin Hammond uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
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Beata Geyer posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
From the moment I met Michele on the beach Indian Lake, she was one of the warmest kindest, and most beautiful people I have ever met. And the impression that stays with me the most is her absolute tirelessness in fighting for an understanding of children from the inside out. Connecting with them through play and striving to always speak their language, she had a very special and wonderful way of making each child feel seen and understood. She drove to understand every difference in how each child’s brain was uniquely wired and how to use play and movement to shift them into a happier place where their sensory and emotional needs could be met. I also loved working together with her in our neuropsych practice, where even if we disagreed about how to understand a case, she was kind and passionate about understanding the child in the best possible way, and truly helped me learn something from her approach every single time. I was also so very fortunate that she uniquely made a difference for my daughter, both as her Girl Scout troop co-leader as well as her OT. Michele never stopped learning and wanting to improve herself, as I remember hearing about her deep enjoyment in training classes in early childhood work. The world is a much better place for everyone because she was in it, though far too briefly. Every child, every family, every person she made a difference for is enriched because of her, and will have more meaningful connections towards others that will forever resonate through the world. Her spirit and the beautiful waves she created throughout this earth and on every lake and ocean, will always resonate and continue to impact others with her warm, loving glow. ❤️ Bee (Beata)
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Lisa Zamorski posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Michele when we both worked at Celebrate the Children for many years. I always enjoyed her OT sessions with the students I was assigned to. She shared her knowledge freely and I learned so much about OT from her. Both my student and I looked forward to her sessions and always new that when we attended they would be filled with love,laughter and kindness. A great lady. Such a great loss for all her knew her. My sincere condolences. She will be truly missed.
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Meryl Picard On Behalf of the Seton Hall Department of Occupational Therapy posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Q: What will you never forget about Michele?
A: It is with deepest sadness that we remember Michele Parkins (’11), our Seton Hall OT alumna, whose sudden passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew her and, in our NJ occupational therapy community. She was a shining example of creativity, tireless dedication, and genuine empathy— qualities that she wove seamlessly into her work and life. Her indominable spirit inspired those around her to learn, grow, and embrace the values of compassion and service.
As a member of our university community, she set a standard for excellence, determination and integrity. Her passionate commitment to helping others has left a lasting legacy, and her memory will continue to inspire us to do better—for ourselves, for our profession, and for those we serve.
With heartfelt condolences to Michele’s family, friends, and co-workers.
The Department of Occupational Therapy Family
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Christie Hanrahan uploaded photo(s)
Monday, July 21, 2025
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There are no words to describe our feelings about Michele. She was an important part of our lives and even now, years later, our kids still ask when we can return to OT. She taught us so much about sensory issues and is the reason we use words like “tricky” and phrases like “use your eyes to help your body” on almost a daily basis. She wasn’t just our OT- she was part of our village and at times one of the only people who truly understood what we were experiencing. We will miss her dearly and send our deepest condolences and prayers to Kim, Tyler and Fletcher.
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Diane Ron Umstead uploaded photo(s)
Monday, July 21, 2025
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Our love and sincere sympathy to all family and friends of our beloved niece, Michele. This photo always brings a smile to our face, today through tears as we remembered that night venturing out in the snow for dinner. Kim, we are praying for you, Tyler, Fletcher, Theresa, Jim, Jamie, Michele, Kim, Laura, everyone; may your own cherished memories bring some comfort now and live in your hearts forever. Michele was loved and adored more than words can say. Rest in the Lord's peace, Michele. With love, Aunt Diane & Uncle Ron
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Megan Persson uploaded photo(s)
Monday, July 21, 2025
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Brad & Heather Craner posted a condolence
Monday, July 21, 2025
I’ll never forget the first time we met Michelle. We were in the early stages of exploring ways to support our son, and up to that point everything felt sterile and rigid…..and here comes this person with an infectious smile who said we can figure this all out, oh and we do it by playing, here is how it works! Her impact on our family will be felt forever.
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Meryl Picard posted a condolence
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Q: How did you meet Michele?
A: I was one of Michele's professors at Seton Hall University during her OT education. I remember a vivacious, intelligent, reflective, and passionate student who knew from the day I met her that her educational journey would lead to a career in pediatrics. Little did we know how fabulously that career would unfold.
Sending heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, co-workers, and her clients/families. This is such a profound loss. Rest in peace, Michele, and may God hold your family close as they grieve.
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Christa Anderson posted a condolence
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Michele was one of my daughter's (Courtney Anderson) best friends from childhood into adulthood. My vision of Michele is the happy smile that always seemed to have a little giggle attached to it. She will be missed by so many,
Christa Anderson
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Katie Macones posted a condolence
Sunday, July 20, 2025
I keep thinking, what would Michele be saying, what advice would she give us. I can hear her laugh. I think she would say to find the light in the darkness, or something like that. I haven’t stopped crying since I heard the news. Michele was my client for about a decade (or more), and I always look forward to seeing her. She has been a beacon of hope and shared so much of her endless knowledge with me. Kim, Tyler, Fletcher, my heart is with you all in this difficult time. Michele, you live on forever in those beautiful kids of yours, and in all of the lives you have touched. I’ll miss the hugs, the deep conversations, and the pictures you’d send me to say thank you for the haircut!
Katie Macones
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Diane and Ron Umstead uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 20, 2025
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You left us with beautiful memories, Michele, and we will cherish them forever ❤️ With love and heavy hearts, our love, Aunt Diane and Uncle Ron
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Charlene Davis posted a condolence
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Q: How did you meet Michele?
A: I met Michele while sitting on the board of NJAIMH. She was so kind and welcoming. Very knowledgeable and always willing to lend her insight and a helping hand. May your legacy live on. Prayers to the family, friends, and all who known and loved Michele!
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Andrea Stock uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 20, 2025
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❤️
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Andrea Stock uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 20, 2025
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What wonderful memories of you I will keep forever. So many fun times. Love you Michele.
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Abigail Rafkin posted a condolence
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Our family has so many wonderful memories of Michele. She was so dedicated to knowing, understanding and helping our son Max. She always greeted him with warmth and joy and treated me with kindness and understanding. We had so much fun playing and learning together, laughing while climbing up a castle or throwing beanbags around the room, or climbing through yards of Lyra finding hidden animals… She changed the course of Max‘s development in the best of ways, and he is forever changed because of her expertise and love, as are we his family.
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The Pettersen Family uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 20, 2025
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Michele was our son Ryan’s OT for the past seven years. She was one of his best buddies! We’ll never forget all the fun we had with her every week at Great Kids Place. Her kindness and friendship meant the world to us. She will always hold a special place in our heart. Sending all our love to her family and the entire Great Kids community. She will never be forgotten!
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Melissa Ricca posted a condolence
Sunday, July 20, 2025
I had the privilege of first meeting Michele when Tyler was at MLCDS and I was an assistant teacher. I remember watching her interact with Tyler, and how she empowered her to be an independent person even at a young age and thinking, “one day, that’s the way I want to be with my own child.” She demonstrated mutual respect and where my philosophy that I use daily with my own child and students truly began; “give respect to get respect.” When I went back to college, Michele inspired my paper on how interdisciplinary collaboration supports students; she sat with me and shared her insights as an occupational therapist. What I knew she would have loved, is some of the information was new to my classmates and sharing her knowledge was clearly ( in my opinion), one of her life missions. Eventually, I became a behaviorist and had the privilege of working with her professionally and watching how she supported my students and their families. Michele was a difference maker and truly one of a kind. Sending my deepest condolences to Kim, Tyler, & Fletcher.
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Matthew Storm posted a condolence
Saturday, July 19, 2025
We didn’t know what was going on with our son. Michele helped us instantly, not only with her eval but with the heart and compassion that went along with it. We wouldn’t have been able to navigate our trying times if it wasn't for her and AnnMarie. The warmth, love, and calming presence she brought to us and countless others will never be forgotten. She changed the way we see our son and helped us become the parents he needed. Rest in peace, love, and legend Michele.
-Storm Family-
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Elizabeth Patterson posted a condolence
Saturday, July 19, 2025
I met Michele when she married my high school friend, Kim. I still remember their wedding and how radiant she looked. Michele later became my son’s OT. Her talent, her intelligence and her gift for connecting easily and genuinely with others was evident immediately. I was (and am still) in awe of her dedication and commitment to her profession. I remember telling Kim, “your wife is AMAZING, you know that right?” Michele improved the lives of everyone she met immeasurably. I will miss her presence, optimism and the way she made others feel seen and understood.
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The family of Michele Lynn Parkins uploaded a photo
Saturday, July 19, 2025
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