Music was his life (updated, 20 photos)

Such was the case with one local musician who, after years of fighting, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday, April 12, 2015.

Mike Case was a gifted musician who dedicated his life to his craft, sharing his passion as an instructor, mentor, collaborator and entrepreneur.

The Sault Ste. Marie music community came together to celebrate his life at the Delta Hotel on Friday, April 17.

Hundreds, if not thousands of friends, colleagues and well-wishers filtered through the ballroom to enjoy a musical tribute honouring a man who never stopped giving.

Mike's fiancee Rita Attoni told us that he continued to offer lessons in their home up until the Friday before he passed.

"Music literally was his life. He told me that when the kids come for lessons, they don't see him as sick. He's just their music teacher," she said.

"What Michael would want to leave in his memory is the fact that music is transcendent from young to old, and towards everyone," she explained. "He loved teaching and he was a big believer that anyone could do it. Teaching brought him great joy."

Friday's tribute to Mike featured a number of guest musicians, including George Wright, Dean Drebit, Jay Case, Ric Datsun, Karen Case, Jeff McNeice, Pat Case, Heather Case, Eugene Gassi, Scott Infanti, Donald Jacques, Tracey Hilderley, and many others.

Efforts have begun to create a lasting tribute to Mike by naming a local stage in his honour, one option being the Rotaryfest Main Stage that hosts live entertainment throughout the three-day event.

Another group was petitioning to have the Bellevue Park bandshell dedicated to him before realizing the stage is already named the Harry R. Pearse Memorial Bandshell.

The hunt is on to find an alternative, and you can join the discussion or offer suggestions by following this Facebook page.

(PHOTO: Pat Case and Jeff McNeice on stage during a celebration of life in honour of Mike Case on Friday, April 17, 2015. Donna Hopper/SooToday)