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Remembering Michael
Giving to Phi Kappa Psi is, for some, a fulfillment of a philanthropic desire. For others, it's a way to give back to an organization which does so much to turn young men into leading adults. For the Junker family, it is a way to remember their son Mike, a Phi Psi who made a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.
Four years ago, Cyndi and Dave Junker's lives were turned upside down. Their only son, Mike, died of colorectal cancer at the young age of 21, three very short months after being diagnosed. Mike was able to
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| John Branham, Iowa '00, Andrew Wylder, Iowa '00, Michael Junker, Iowa '00 and Josh Everts, Iowa '00. |
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experience Phi Psi for two and a half years and in that time, fulfilled his dream "to do his small part in making the world a better place." "We witnessed the unbreakable support system of the Phi Psi brotherhoodduring his illness, wake and funeral as well as in the years following Mike's death" said Mike's mother Cyndi during a scholarship brunch in August of 2006.
The overwhelming support provided by those touched by Mike's life has made a lasting impact on the Junkers. "The loyalty and conduct of the brothers shown during our short affiliation with the brotherhood demonstrates the honor, decency and goodwill in the enduring friendships and brotherly love found in the Phi Kappa Psi fraternal organization," says Cyndi Junker. "The love and support of the young men who were Mike's close friends, those who were friends and those who never knew Mike mean the world to us - they have touched our hearts as much as Mike touched theirs."
The Junkers felt so connected to Phi Psi and the Iowa Alpha Chapter and thought what better way to remember Mike's life then to set up a scholarship in his name. The Junker Memorial scholarship is given out to a junior who possess attributes similar to those of Mike's. Josh Everts, Iowa '00, a pledge brother of Mike's said to Cyndi "I was drawn toward your son with his quick wit, impeccable timing with his humor and his laid back attitude. . . As I got to know Mike, I found a guy who really cared; he cared about school, his future and most importantly his family and friends. He was so loved because he loved."
Mike had a lasting impact on everyone he met and his memory and spirit are still strongly felt with the Iowa Alpha members. For more information on Chapter Scholarship Funds or to set up a named scholarship to honor a Phi Psi, please contact the Foundation offices at 800-350-1852 or visit the Foundation's website. |
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