Deanna Gallichan (Mason)

I'm deeply saddened to hear that Michelle passed away. She was so energetic and vibrant that her death seems

inconceivable. I was very lucky to march Crossmen's colorguard in 97 and 98. Michelle was such a friendly, fun and talented instructor. She knew that relationships were at the heart of good teaching, and she always got the very best out of everyone she taught. My strongest memories of her teaching are of the wonderful flag work she wrote,

particularly the end section of Third Wind in 98. I recall us all talking about what great work she wrote, it was always so full of energy and so much fun to perform. She also wrote the most beautiful sabre feature in First Circle that I loved to watch whilst waiting with my curved pole. I also remember seeing Michelle with Jeff after DCI finals in 98 and thinking that they made a great couple. She was a truly beautiful person inside and out and I feel very lucky to have met and been taught by her, and deeply sad at her passing.

I have attached some photos here that I also posted on the Facebook page. Please feel free to take caption details from there. I am in the UK (I was one of the English girls marching in the late 90s), and I will be thinking of Jeff, Rod and all her family and friends who will gather to celebrate her life.