Michael ‘Mike’ Robert McPhail, well-known former President of the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of January 11, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. One year after his passing he is still missed by all of us who worked with him, travelled with him and enjoyed his enthusiasm for nature. Mike was an ardent supporter of the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists and a deeply committed lover of the natural world. At the time of his passing Mike was a member of MVFN’s Board of Directors and had previously served as MVFN’s President. Mike was a true champion for nature. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike’s family, wife Peggy, daughters Amber and Christine, sister Susan, and all his family and friends.
In September 2012 the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists were pleased to dedicate a memorial bench installed at the Mill of Kintail Conservation area in Mike’s memory. The bench, which bears a plaque was placed near the play structure and education building. A ceremony with members of Mike’s family, took place to dedicate the bench designed and built in memory of Mike McPhail.
