It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of one of
the greatest, most beloved Viking Fans of all times. Michael Francis
Hill Sobczyk passed away on Wednesday, June 2nd, 2004 at his home in
Gainesville, VA following complications from his long-time COPD &
pneumonia. Michael loved his Vikings for over 43 years. He never
wavered in his support. The fan club meant everything to him. When
we finally discovered it, it opened up so many opportunities for him
to enjoy his passion with so many other friends. Because of the fan
club, we met so many wonderful people and made some lifetime friends.
It has only been the last year that Michael couldn't get to the fan
club. The move to Crystal City made it too hard on him to get to the
club and enjoy the fun with everyone. I put a satellite dish on the
house for him to enjoy his team every week. The year the Vikings did
so well (I think it was 1998 or 1999), I managed to take Michael to 7
games. It was a year he never forgot. He had the opportunity to meet
several of the players (he even had a drink with Chris Carter at the
bar in the Hilton in Minneapolis!!!), he met Red and his family, he
met Coach Green and his wife. It was a great year for him. One I
will never forget.

Will you please make sure JR sees this email. He has been a great
friend for several years and I didn't know how to get in touch with him.

Sometime this season I will bring our other Viking fans to the club to
celebrate with everyone, our 2 grandsons Nicholas (8) and Christopher
(7 months). We have to teach Christopher all about his Grandpas passion.

Thank you for the years of friendship and fun.

Sheila M. Sobczyk