Michael Hayes Organ

Michael Hayes Organ traveled from this life to Eternal Life, on Tuesday, January 12, 2016.  Michael was born on July 11, 1946 in Marion, Indiana, the son of the late James M. Organ and Helen Burchfield Organ.  He was also predeceased by his lifelong partner, Kenneth E. Hicks, and his best friend, and sister, Mary Frances (Dudie) Carroll Noblitt, and his loving step mother, Eleanor G. Organ.  He is survived by many step brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins, all over the globe too numerous to name.  But most importantly, he is survived by the “kindest hearts” of Staunton, Craig and Shirley Peterson, who shared their home with Michael, and whose loving care provided Michael the ability to live independently since suffering a severe stroke in April, 2011.   Michael grew up in Marion, Indiana where he graduated from Bennett Catholic High School with the fabulous class of 1964. He graduated from St. Joseph’s College, Rennsalaer, Ind. in 1969, followed by a master’s in Tourism from George Washington University. Michael, migrated to Staunton, Va., in the early ‘80’s following a stint with the American Express Travel, for teaching opportunities in tourism. He fell in love with the two hills he saw every day in Staunton, Betsy Belle, and Mary Grae, and put away his traveling ambitions to settle here for life.  He and his partner, Ken Hicks, converted an old Victorian mansion into the Belle Grae Inn where they planted their roots. Michael and Ken spent nearly thirty years restoring over twenty historic homes and buildings in Staunton, and later Michael organized groups to work toward renovations in Newtown, and more recently in Staunton’s West End. Earlier this year the City of Staunton honored Michael with a garden on West Beverley St. near the intersection with Grubert Ave. named for him, an honor which touched his heart. Michael lived life “full to the brim”. He has been a collector of good and dear friends as well as a collector of antiques.  He was a light in the world sharing his optimistic and spiritual outlook on life.  A servant of God and man on earth; and, without a doubt, the new Innkeeper in heaven! Cremation is being managed by Henry Funeral Home, Staunton. Interment in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Sycamore, Illinois. In the spirit of Michael's Ecumenism: A Memorial Mass is planned for: 10:00 A.M, Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at St. Francis of Assissi Catholic Church, 118 N. New St., Staunton, with Fr. Rolo B. Castillo officiating. A reception will follow at: Marquis Memorial United Methodist Church, Social Hall, 1614 W. Beverly St., Staunton. Memorial contributions may be made to: Hostess House, 723 W. Fourth Street, Marion, Indiana 46952 or ShenanArts at nTelos Theatre, 300 Churchville Ave., Staunton, Va. 24401 or Oak Grove Theatre, Box 3040 Staunton, Va. 24402 or a charity of the donor’s choice.