I met Horty and Corinne at the Nelson Evening Mail many years ago. My best friends for life. Thanks to Corinne we still kept in touch despite me living in the UK for over 20yrs. Horty was a true gentleman and best friend - I will always treasure our friendship. Rest in peace now Horty and give them hell up there love px

A true one-of-a-kind - there wasn't room for two of you mate. Every part of you was truly genuine. I'm proud to call you my friend. Distance, situation, life - I wish I'd stayed in touch more.....but it didn't really matter to you; every time we crossed paths, it was as simple, easy and comfortable as if we'd only seen each other yesterday. Although you're gone, I'm so glad you can relax now - you fought hard. Rest easy my friend.

Horty mate. You never had a bad word to say about anyone. Your positivity was amazing. Have a couple up in heaven mate. RIP Horty.

Be it golf, squash, tennis, drinking or eating you were always there. You were a great flat mate, great company, generous and kind. Always in our hearts and thoughts.

From a reference I wrote for Horty - ``Without a flicker of doubt or a moment’s hesitation, I heartily commend Mike to any prospective employer. Beneath the leonine hair and behind his amiable, plain-spoken and straightforward exterior is a good worker, a good colleague and a good man. ``Do yourself a favour: hire him.’’ I should add that I also got to know and spend time with Horty socially - and all the qualities and attributes he displayed as a worker were echoed as a friend. In more recent years, particularly since my retirement, I have not seen Mike as often as I would have liked or should have done. But whenever our paths did cross, he was always the same Horty, even when struggling with serious health issues - steadfastly resilient and good-humoured. A good man, indeed.

Horty, loved by so many and it’s easy to see why A heart of gold, true friend and all-round good guy. You showed me friendship whilst Neil was adventuring away The bright lights of Nelson, too much booze and leading me astray! All would agree, you certainly were one of the best But now the time has arrived to finally lay down and rest. You fought your illness with such tenacity and pride Never once allowing your humour to hide. I persevered with the hugs that became a ritual you wouldn’t miss Even at the end you puckered up for a hug and a kiss! Our boating adventures and Friday nights will never be the same But we will always reminisce and raise a Heineken in your name!

Very sad to hear of his Hortitude’s passing. The last I saw him he made me a fabulous crumbed fish lunch just before watching the rugby. A recent text from me I sent a heart. He responded with an image of a man scratching his head looking worried. Travel well dude Bryan

Horty, mate ... you were the worst quiz team-mate ("Shoes!" "K!") and you never could spell forty but you are one of the best blokes any of us will ever meet. Thank you for many many nights when I should have left three hours earlier. Go well old son. Pete

Dear Horty. The sweetest and most genuine person. you are free from pain at last. Enjoy the beer and friendship in the sky Much love ❤️ Cindy and Barry Milne

To all my old childhood neighbours and friends, Debbie, Chris and John and to their extended families I have not met. I am so genuinely sad to hear of Mikes passing. He was always just the same when I met him on my visits back home, cheeky and with a big smile and talk at 100 miles an hour....I am glad he is free from the pain that goes with Cancer and I know he will be having a game of golf and a pint somewhere. All my love from Napier Sheryl....(Guthardt).

To the nicest cheese eating buddy we could wish for and all the fun times we have had together we will truly miss you Horty RIP xx

To John & Helen, Chris, Debbie & Gary and your families, passing on my dearest condolences to you all. I know Michael will leave a huge gap in your lives, may he be at peace and in the company of your Mum & Dad. RIP Horty 🙏 Thinking of you all, with love Jill Ennor X💞

So many fond memories of our times at The Nelson Mail. You were a top bloke Horty. Free from pain at last. Moe mai ra Horty.