Muskegon Parents Honor Late Son with Unique Wind Phone Tribute

URGENT UPDATE: A heartwarming tribute to a lost son has emerged in Muskegon, Michigan, with the introduction of a unique wind phone designed for grieving families. Stacey and Alan McCabe, who tragically lost their son Michael at the age of 18, are now utilizing this poignant connection to honor his memory.

On a trail along 1700 Lakeshore Drive, the McCabes regularly visit the wind phone installed in Michael’s memory. “He was a happy kid. He was a free spirit,” Stacey shared as she and her husband reflected on their son’s vibrant life. The emotional weight of Michael’s passing in October 2022 — discovered by his father when he found a gun casing on the bedroom floor — has left an indelible mark on the couple, who are still grappling with their loss.

Michael was just beginning his journey at Muskegon Community College on a scholarship, embarking on adulthood when tragedy struck. “We never got to go through the empty nest stage,” Stacey explained, emphasizing the abruptness of their loss.

The wind phone serves as a spiritual connection, offering a way to communicate with lost loved ones. “It is a phone that is a real phone, but is disconnected,” Stacey clarified. “And it is a spiritual call that you would make to your loved one, that the wind carries your voice away to them.”

Both parents have taken turns stepping into the booth, sharing heartfelt messages with their son as they wipe away tears. “Hey buddy,” Alan said during his visit. “Getting ready to go a year and a half without you. I miss you. I miss you a lot, kid.” His words resonate with the pain of losing a child, encapsulating the emotional struggle many face after an unexpected loss.

Stacey followed with her own message, expressing her longing: “Hi Michael Anthony, it’s Mom. I miss you so much.” She mentioned how she and Alan would attend an indoor soccer game, wishing their son were there. “I love you forever. I’ll talk to you again soon, okay? Bye sweetheart,” she concluded, leaving a piece of her heart within the booth.

The wind phone is not solely a tribute for the McCabes; it is a place of solace for the entire community. “We put it in for everybody,” Stacey said, hoping it brings comfort to others in mourning. The McCabes encourage visitors to share their own messages, allowing the wind to carry their words to loved ones lost.

This initiative highlights the profound need for connection during times of grief. The wind phone stands as a symbol of love and remembrance, inviting others to participate in this unique form of communication.

The McCabes hope that as people walk along the path, they think of Michael and find peace in the ability to express their feelings. The wind phone is now a notable feature in Muskegon, offering a moment of reflection for anyone who stops by.

For those interested in visiting, the wind phone is located at 1700 Lakeshore Drive in Muskegon. Walk along the path to the right and discover this touching memorial where voices are carried away by the wind, creating a lasting bond with those who have passed on.