December 12, 1955 - February 12, 2017
“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming”
Mike Freas grew up in a richly creative environment in which Mike’s grandfather, Ron ‘Gusty’ Garrett, was a seminal influence. Gusty Garrett played trumpet in Chicago for all the greats — played in the house band at The Chicago Theatre backing up The Andrews Sisters, Nat ‘King’ Cole, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald among others. Music was life.
Mike’s formative growing-up years he spent in Laurel Canyon in its heyday in the late 60s and early 70s. Frank Zappa lived in the log cabin on the corner and Mike would fly over the canyon and Zappa’s house on a rope swing. One of Mike’s early jobs was driving Zappa to rehearsals. Andy Summers — yes THAT Andy Summers — found Mike his first good guitar and taught him how to play. Pre-Police Andy gave Mike guitar lessons in exchange for a place to live in Mike’s parent’s guest house.
Andy was a huge influence on Mike … he was older, experienced and he knew all the British Invasion guys: Eric Clapton, Pete Townsend, etc. As Mike recalls, “I can clearly remember Andy telling me, ‘Stop listening to Who records — listen to the records THEY listen to. I’ve seen Eric Clapton’s record collection — go listen to B.B. King’s ‘Live At The Regal.’ Listen to Freddie King.’ So that’s what I did. Andy totally changed my direction.”
Mike was diagnosed with cancer in February of 2016. After a year of fighting an extremely aggressive disease Mike passed away at home with his family. He is survived by his two daughters Sarah and Tessa and his loving girlfriend Leeta, He is also survived by his Brother christopher, sister carla, Niece AnnaLeah, Nephew Shane, former wife Teri, And extended family in both Michigan and New York.
Mike dedicated his life to his craft. he practiced guitar daily, played in many bands, and worked in the music industry for 40 years. His hard work, dedication, and integrity inspired many.
We've created this website not only as a memorial to Mike, but also as a way for the world to enjoy his life's work.
Mike's Band's website: Terraplane Special