Remembering Michael Allmis: A Special Member of the Orange Family
Today is a special day as our entire Orange Team remembers a very special person: Michael Allmis, who we had to say goodbye to at the beginning of September, just before his 37th birthday today. Michael was a firmly integrated member of our Orange Family, deeply appreciated by everyone, and an extraordinarily talented media designer and photographer. He enriched the ICUnet.Group with his passionately created designs.
A Dream Realized: Michael's Last Wish
Michael was diagnosed with an incurable disease in late spring, and we were all shocked. Despite his difficult situation, it was important for him to return to the company. In a conversation, our CEO and founder Dr. Fritz Audebert asked him if he still had any dreams or wanted to experience something special. Michael didn’t think twice and had a clear answer: the Route 66. Dr. Audebert said: “Michael, please ask your doctor today if you can do this journey in a camper van from Chicago to Santa Barbara/Los Angeles. The company will pay for it. You are more than worth it to us.” His call later that evening was devastating – the doctors said he would not make it.
A Virtual Journey Together
Within a day, the whole team mobilized. We wanted Michael to participate virtually in a joint tour on Route 66, traveling the entire distance from Chicago to LA with him, so to speak. Whether on foot, by bike, swimming, climbing, or crawling – every time someone moved, we made a little progress together on our virtual map.
This way, Michael was able to realize his dream of Route 66, at least in this way, and enjoy daily personal messages and photos from his colleagues, who were always with him in thought – until the end. When we completed the 2,290 miles in less than a month, we walked the route back together. The team spirit and commitment were truly moving.
Michael's Lasting Legacy
During Dr. Audebert’s funeral speech, we realized once again what a unique person we had lost as a colleague. Michael crafted his graphics for the ICUnet.Group with so much passion that they had more than just recognition value; they expressed much more the entire personality of the company visually.
We are very grateful for all his valuable works, which will continue to have meaning even after his death. Let us think about what Michael left behind with us.
Our Thoughts Are With Michael and His Family
Our thoughts continue to be with Michael and his family – especially today, of course, on his birthday, dear Michael. Rest in peace.
Michael was a humble, unique, and kind-hearted person in whose presence one could only feel comfortable. He remains unforgotten.