In Memory

Michael Nederlk

Michael Nederlk

Died in Viet Nam 12/14/1967

From Marlene Gengo

"One of the Good Guys in our class. I loved his warm, friendly gestures. Always a pat on my back or a hug when I needed it and always there to help anyone. His constant concern for his brother Paul and sister Mary Ann was utmost in his heart. He wanted to care and protect them, even though he had been called to serve in Viet Nam. He specifically asked me to watch over his sister to make sure she stayed on the straight path. When he went away, he left with a heavy heart and with the weight of the world on his shoulders, worrying about his mother and siblings. There was no doubt that he was the Man of the House. and worked hard to keep everyone in place. As a result of his concern for others, he sacrificed his life to do a favor for a friend, when he took over the Point Man position for his squad. The day prior, he was ordered to hold that position and was spared, but not the next day. Mike was one of those guys who would have continued to reach out to those that needed help and it seems to me that it would have only been a matter of time when the Lord would have said; 'That's enough Mike... Job Well Done.' 

'A life spent worthily should be measured by deeds, not years.' Sheridan

Bollard in Highland Park Viet Nam Veterans' Memorial

Bollard in Highland Park Viet Nam Veterans' Memorial