There are many ways to impact the world, whether you choose to give of your time and talents through volunteerism, or put your financial resources to work; the legacy you leave behind can make a lasting impact well beyond your years.
Michael Cartwright was born in December 1942 and spent a majority of his life in San Antonio, where he attended Robert E. Lee High School.
“Growing up, Mike’s mission was to help his family and others,” said Denise Noah, Michael’s younger sister. “He was a quiet guy who spent a lot of time alone, but he was also a very passionate person who thrived on helping others.”
Michael became a driving force at his alma mater, Lee High School, where he spent 37 years as a coach and government teacher. He recognized the importance of instilling the value of hard work and dedication in the minds of his students and spent his career inspiring hundreds with his passion for government and American rights.
“Mike was a simple man who loved camping, fishing, and spending time with his dog, Snapper,” described Sue Nowlin, Michael’s friend and colleague. “Children always had a special place in his heart, which is why he invested so much into the lives of his students. He truly had a heart for helping people and would even spend his summer vacations helping neighbors with yard work.”
Michael cared so much about his students that when he heard there was a student in need, he would find a way to anonymously meet that need.
“If a student was without means of transportation, a bike would appear for his use. If a debater needed proper clothes for his UIL competition, a nice sports coat his size materialized,” Sue added. “Though Mike never had children of his own, he invested heavily in the children around him. He was dedicated to transforming lives.”
After conquering colon cancer, Michael unexpectedly passed away on October 10, 2014. In his will, he specified that a portion of his assets be liquidated and distributed to The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. His estate gift totaled to more than $104,000. Through his gift, Michael will live on and help transform the lives of hospitalized children in need for years to come.
“Mr. Cartwright’s gift will help The Children’s Hospital where we need it most,” said John E. Bel, president of The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Foundation. “As the last, best gift of a lifetime, it is a wonderful testament of his spirit of generosity and caring for others.”
If you would like to learn more about estate planning, please join us for The Power in Planning Seminar on Tuesday, August 23rd. Details below:
CHRISTUS Children's Foundation 
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