Remembering Mike Trotta

How do you measure a life? Is it by the company you keep? The family you nurture? The material you possess? The content of your character?

It has been 1 year since Mike Trotta left us. Mike was my work colleague, and Mike was my friend. I remember when Art Homrighausen introduced Mike to me. Here was this seemingly quiet outdoorsman, a Gaucho, and a qualified field biologist. I recognized Mike’s humor and appreciated his affability.

I enjoyed Mike’s tales of hunting and fishing. I knew he loved to surf and was an accomplished waterman. We shared a love of swimming and spent many laps in the pool. Mike’s girlfriend at the time became his wife. Kristen and I shared many nights out together with Mike and Mary. Over time, Mike and Mary started a family.

Mike loved LSA. He loved to practice field biology and would never miss an opportunity to be outside. But Mike did not shy away from other business responsibilities like personnel and office management. Working with him in the Executive Management Team, I can tell you Mike always thought of the staff’s interest first. He loved sharing time with people through the CEO Connect.

It is very difficult for me to write this now. I have to reflect on a rich, sweet, and painful part of my past that I would rather turn from.

But I choose to measure Mike’s life on this anniversary. He kept all of us as his company and chosen family. He nurtured his wife and two sons. Mike’s greatest possessions were outside – in the mountains, plains, or sea. And I will judge Mike’s character as moral and kind.

LSA is made of individuals. Each contributing in their own special way. Mike contributed greatly to our history and success.

Thank you, Mike. Rest well.