He owned Charlottesville’s the Men’s and Boy’s Shop on the Downtown Mall, which has existed for 103 years.

Mike knew clothing like most people know their name, having started in the business when he was barely old enough to work. I met him nearly 20 years ago, and over the past two decades, he was much more than the proprietor of a men’s clothing store to me.

He was one of the best friends I ever had. I bought suits and sport coats frequently from Mike over the years, and he would call me when new goods arrived. The kindness Mike bestowed on me I won’t be able to repay. He passed away on Oct. 6 after a long physical battle.

A few stories might tell you how deeply he cared about his friends. A blue cashmere coat arrived at the store about 12 years ago. I was short on cash and couldn’t afford the coat, even with the discount Mike always offered.

But he looked at me and said, “I want you to have that coat.” So, with an even bigger discount, I walked out of the store with the blue cashmere coat I still have and wear.

When I retired from the News Virginian five years ago, Mike immediately offered me a part-time job working in the store to help supplement my retirement income. I was never very good as a salesperson or a worker, but Mike kept me on until a transition time last spring when he was too sick to work.

Last Christmas, despite his physical struggles, Mike still brought in a lot of food so that customers and staff could enjoy it. I can’t remember whether I got him bourbon or a gift certificate, but when the time came for a gift for me, he told me to pick out a sports coat.

He always took a personal interest in his customers, asking them about their families. He could get a bit salty with his language at times, but beneath the sometimes gruff exterior beat the heart of a kind and caring soul.

He was an excellent salesman, often working hours to satisfy a customer. He loved what he did. And so did the customers, who rewarded him with a lifetime of loyal buying.

Twice recently, I encountered people in my travels who had purchased items from him. A Waynesboro minister was stunned to hear of Mike’s passing, saying he fondly recalled negotiating purchases with him. A local banker inquired about him at an event, asking me to contact him about memorials.

Sometimes, people say nice things about a person after their death.

Well, you can take it to the bank from me. I will miss hearing Mike’s voice, buying clothes from him and having him as a friend. His death is a significant loss for me, his family and the greater Charlottesville community.

Maybe I can recycle the words of the Tinman in “The Wizard of Oz.” When he says goodbye to Dorothy at the end of the movie, he says he knows he has a heart now because it’s breaking. Mine is broken.