In this corner, weighing in at 5 pounds and 7 ounces, born to Patricia and Gerald Connors on April 19, 1968, we bid farewell to Michael Timothy AKA 'Big Mike' Connors! Mike was the youngest of 7 kids and hailed from his hometown of Fresno, California.

Mike's impact was felt far and wide, particularly during his 30-year tenure with the Fresno Unified School District. As an influential figure in the lives of countless students, his wisdom, loving heart, and dedication to their success will forever be remembered. He believed in guiding them towards the right path, ensuring they could achieve their full potential.

As a single parent, Mike raised his daughter Ashley with love and dedication, ensuring she had a better upbringing than he did. She graduated at the top of her high school class and went on to succeed in the medical field after graduating from Fresno State.

Truly larger than life, Big Mike was a force to be reckoned with. His massive physique, strength, and larger-than-life personality commanded attention in every room he entered. With an impeccable sense of humor and natural leadership, he left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

To Mike, weightlifting was not just a sport, but a reflection of his approach to life—disciplined, planned, and relentless. He believed that success lay in the hours of preparation, and he gave it his all to be a strong man, not just in the gym, but in every aspect of his life.

In the past 2 and a half years, Mike poured his heart and soul into his latest creation—the nurturing and mentoring of his best friend's son, Jackson, whom he affectionately called his 'Frankenstein.' He believed that time was the most valuable gift one could offer and shared every second with friends who had the privilege of knowing him.

A near-death experience a few years ago profoundly impacted Mike, reminding him of the love and support his friends and community offered during that trying time. He attributed his gratitude and survival to Jackson O'Day, Dr. Dalpinder Sandhu, and, most importantly, God. Alongside his friend Phil Brandt, who shared a similar experience, Mike realized the need to live with a greater purpose. He dedicated himself to God and regularly attended church, finding solace in his growing faith.

Big Mike's memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the lives he touched along the way. His absence will be deeply felt, but he will always be remembered for his strength, love, and commitment. Preceded in death by his mother Patricia Connors, father Gerald Connors, and sister Carrie Connors, he is survived by his many friends that are like his family, daughter Ashley Connors, brother Gerald, sisters Nicole, Erin, Kelly, Valerie, Verdaine, and his loyal companion, dog Vinnie.

While we selfishly long for more time with Mike, we are grateful for the past 2 and a half years where we witnessed the best version of him. His spiritual growth, happiness, and outspoken nature became evident as he reconnected with his high school girlfriend, Renee Smith, whom he praised as the love of his life and his soulmate. Love and faith transformed Mike's life exponentially, and he spoke of their relationship with a sense of gratitude, friendship, and deep connection.

Today, as we bid farewell to Big Mike, let us celebrate his life and the imprint he left on this world. May his spirit and the valuable lessons he embodied continue to inspire us to strive for greatness, push past our limits, and, above all, love unconditionally. Rest in the power and peace of our Lord, "Big Mike."

A Graveside Service will be held at Clovis Cemetery on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, followed by a Celebration of Life reception at New Hope Church.