When most people think of Mike Ilitch, they think of his involvement in sports, entertainment or food empires.
There are many who know or who have interacted with Ilitch who say that he was much more than just a sports mogul and pizza icon, adding that he was simply a good, caring man who wanted to help those around him.
Rich Gibson is one of those people who say Ilitch had a positive impact on his life and made it even better with a letter of encouragement from Ilitch himself.
Gibson lost his father at 7 years old, and battled problems with alcohol through his adult life. He found sobriety after he took the job as a Little Caesars store manager.
"It occupied my time early in my recovery; I had no time to think about drinking,” Gibson said.
Gibson wrote a letter to Ilitch, thanking him for being a major part of his recovery.
“My area supervisor gave it to him and he told me don't be surprised if he doesn't contact you in some way,” Gibson said.
But Ilitch did write back congratulating him on his success. In the letter, Ilitch told Gibson “overcoming adversity builds character and I commend you on your success in your recovery.”
Sober for 29 years now, Gibson said Ilitch’s legacy and kindness will never be forgotten.
When I was drinking, I was not a good person> Now I feel like I'm a pretty good person,” Gibson said. “That structure helped me.”
Ilitch died Friday at the age of 87.
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