Mike Chance (of Chance Rides) Passes away

[John Peck]

http://amusementtoday.com/2016/04/mike-chance-loses-battle-with-depression/

 

Mike Chance loses battle with depression

 

By AT Staff | April 20, 2016

 

Michael Chance_CRWICHITA, Kan. — In a prepared statement to the amusement industry, Chance Rides, Inc. has announced that company President Mike Chance lost his battle with depression on April 19 at the age of 42.

 

“Yesterday our family and company suffered a tremendous loss. Our son and company president Mike Chance lost his long‐term and well‐fought battle with depression. Mike had suffered from this tough disease for years and had faithfully sought treatment and relief from its effects. Like any other disease that is not yet well understood, depression is often difficult to successfully treat.” said Dick Chance, CEO of Chance Rides and Mike’s father.

 

“We are proud of Mike for bravely fighting this disease for years while living a full and rich life as a wonderful husband and father, son, grandson, brother, friend and a great company leader. He was a triathlete who competed alongside friends in Iron Man triathlons across the country. Mike valiantly fought this disease while focusing on doing great work together with our employees so the fact that he had this disease will come as a surprise to many who knew him. Just as with other diseases that take our loved ones too early, our family’s hope is that research into the treatment for depression will advance. And that those seeking relief from this disease will find a path to successful treatment.”

 

Michael Chance joined the family business in 2000 with the purchase of D.H. Morgan Manufacturing, Inc. and became President of Chance Morgan, Inc., today known as Chance Rides, Inc. He was instrumental in expanding the company into roller coaster design and manufacturing and in the development of new products. He graduated from Kansas State University with a marketing degree. He and his wife Mindi have one son.

 

Harold Chance formed the original Chance company in 1961. Dick Chance has been the Chance CEO since 1985. Company ownership remains within the Chance family.

 

Service arrangements and memorials are pending. Chance Rides announced the news to employees this morning and is offering ongoing grief counseling for its 100 employees.

 

AmusementToday.com will post service information once arrangements are finalized.

Edited April 21, 2016 by John Peck

[Nrthwnd]

 

I went through a bad depression myself for five years, but thankfully, came out of it, eventually.

It's not easy to get out of, it took a medical meltdown for me to come out of it.

 

I'm so sorry for your loss, Chance Family, Friends, and Loved Ones. May you find strength and joy

in remembering the awesome times you had together, and the love you shared, with Mike.

Edited April 20, 2016 by Nrthwnd

[gerstlaueringvar]

Rest in peace.

[Superbatboy]

So sad R.I.P.

[yay101]

I feel very sad. Mike Chance was a brilliant person who made brilliant rides and he should not have gone through what he did.

[djcoastermark]

I know there is nothing I can do other than send a little of my love, to help with the sorrow those close must feel, and just remember the good times.

[Superbatboy]

I always love watching this video, hard to fathom how this father no longer has his son

 

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[coloradocoasterguy]

I hope Chance continues to develop cool coasters like Lightning Run in his memory. RIP. My wife suffered bipolar depression for years.

Edited April 21, 2016 by coloradocoasterguy

[Midgetman82]

Such unfortunate news to hear... my thoughts are with his family, friends, and co-workers.

[alpengeist04]

Such sad news, the Chance family is in my prayers.

 

I always love watching this video, hard to fathom how this father no longer has his son

 

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I agree, seeing how happy and proud they were about how their incredible ride turned out should bring a smile to everyone's face in such hard times.