Michael 'Big Mike' Dennis Edwards Obituary (1949

Michael Dennis Edwards, known for years as 'Big Mike' passed away August 13, 2013 at the age of 64. Mike lived most of his life in Des Moines where he attended North High School. Mike was a musician and vocalist all his life. He sang in and with numerous bands around the Des Moines area and nationally. In 2009 Mike was inducted into the 'Blues Hall of Fame.' He also sang at hundreds of funerals during his lifetime. Mike could sing, 'Mary had a little Lamb' and make it sound like a church hymn. He could also sing a church hymn and make is sound like a blues song. He was very versatile. He sang with Somethin' Do, Prince, Santana, and for years Midwest Express. Besides music, Mike's other passion was fishing. Mike is survived by his life partner, Janet Michael; his daughter, Shearise Auston; his siblings Carl (Debbie) Davis; Terry (Nirobi) Davis and Connie Russell; his step children, Michael Bailey, Michelle Hill, Sean Bixler, Ezekiel and Daniel Michael III; 4 grandchildren, the Des Moines music community and many, many friends. A memorial concert is scheduled for 1 to 5 pm on Saturday, August 24, 2013 at the Simon Estes Amphitheater in downtown Des Moines. Musicians that wish to perform at the service are asked to RSVP to 515 309-6550. Performers and friends are welcome to make donations to the funeral home in Mikes name.