Mr. Marshane Lovelle Hardaway

A Memorial Service for Mashane Lovelle Hardaway On November 14, 1957 a special son was delivered to expectant parents. A son, a new brother and child of God they named Mashane Lavell Hardaway. Their beautiful brown baby boy was born with a zest for life, beginning from his earliest years. Mashane lived his life his way, on his terms. Over the years Mashane inherited many nicknames: Mic, Mickyshawn, Monk, Monkman and he proudly wore his title of uncle, brother, Daddy and of course, son! Mashane’s early youth was greatly enriched with the union of Constance to William Griffin Jr. The couple’s eight children with two more born later, creating a “Black Brady Bunch” placing Micky square in the middle of the newly created large clan. Mashane developed a close and loving relationship with all of his new big brothers and sister welcoming baby sister Lebug (Lisa Smith) and later baby Laman into his protective care with a special place for his sisters; Shawn Griffin and the late Yoland Hardaway. Mashane was especially close with his “Pop” the late (William Griffin Jr.). From the very start, the Griffin’s (Connie and Bill) made clear to the children, there weren’t any...steps there, except the ones leading in their home on Detroit’s Northend and later on the LaSalle Gardens South. Mashane grew up close to all his brothers and sisters and if any one of them called on him, Mashane responded immediately without pause or consideration of the task. Micky attended the Detroit Public School System: Thirkell Elementary, Hutchins Jr. High and Northwestern High, of which Mashane’s contribution impacted Northwestern’s Championship swim team. Sharing and following his big brother (Bootsy), led Mashane’s love for and most prolific activity, swimming. He also enjoyed shooting pool, cartoons, monster movies, baseball and becoming a father. With fatherhood came maturity, Mashane embraced an excellent work ethic he observed of his “Pop.” Beginning as a “Box Boy” for the late Bennie Perry Moving Company, Mick diligently worked to learn the art of packing and moving of affluent clients. Accompanying his expanding service education along the way, Mashane became known as “that guy,” mastering several genres capable of and did all handyman jobs to perfection; including landscaping, chaffer, baby-sitter and dog walker extraordinaire! Always hungry to learn, Mashane began his construction education by joining Detroit’s Laborer Union 334, led and guided by his “Big Brothers,” Earl (Bootsy), like brother, the late Arvin Carer Sr. (Big Dog) and brother, the late Edward Griffin (Eddie) bringing up the rear. Mashane, an active member of 334, participated in city of Detroit local events, including: fundraising and parade duties. Mashane was proud to be among the crew that poured the Renessance building’s foundation. Mashane’s hunger grew and he went on to earn his G.E.D. as well as completing and obtaining his certificatrion in Dry Wall Installation. Through it all, Micky loved cookies...all cookies. He loved Kool Aid, red pop, and never tired of pork steak, even if it meant sharing his treasure with his siblings. Micky cherished all those he called friends. Mashane’s unfailing compassion was visible with his care of his special needs brother, the late Roderick Hardaway (Rockyman). Later, his love of family was shone brightly as a tireless caregiver for more than ten years to his eldest brother, the late Michael Griffin and continual assistance with “Pop” until his home going. Mashane’s unwavering devotion to his mother, Constance was unequal, he was her right hand. If Connie needed, Micky saw to it...whatever it was. Years passed with Mashane finding love. When Ms. Frances West entered his life 24 years ago, Fran brought her gentle spirit, easy smile and loving ways that soothed Mic’s rough exterior. Memorable reflections of Mashane Lavell Hardaway and his first cousin, Dale Jackson of Ohio, they were close as peanut butter and jelly during their early adolescent years; visiting their shared maternal grandmother (Brazelia). Mashane and Dale’s special bond reached manhood. A mother’s reflection of her son...when Micky was eight or nine years old, he was Superman. He kidnapped towels for his super cape. Mashane bounced and launched himself on all the furniture especially the beds. Well one day, Superman bounced, jumped and actually flew out of the window. Luckily he only received a few stitches and bruises. Boy oh boy did Mashane love the Man of Steel. Micky’s family and friends who will forever miss his physical presence and are saddened by his passing but will remember to be joyful in his legacy of love he left them. Mashane Lavell Hardaway bore his illness with a stoic resolve and patient acceptance of the cards he was dealt, in his own words. Mickyshawn’s spirit never faltered, he never gave up the first until our Lord called him home

Mr. Marshane Lovelle Hardaway

November 14, 1957 - November 20, 2016