Michael, age 27, was born in the Cameroon, West Africa, and came to the Foundation in 1976. He had been cared for, taught by, and teacher to Dr. Francine "Penny" Patterson, Dr. Ronald H. Cohn and the staff of the Foundation since he was three and a half years old.

Michael is one of only two gorillas in the world to have learned a human language. He mastered well over 500 signs in American Sign Language and understood spoken English as well. In addition to his language abilities, Michael was a talented and prolific painter and a lover of classical music.

Michael is survived by his lifelong friend, Koko and his companion Ndume. He was deeply loved by The Gorilla Foundation's staff, members and friends throughout the world. The Foundation is especially sensitive to the impact that Michael's death may have on the many, many children who have expressed their love with letters and drawings sent to the gorillas over the years.

Dr. Patterson said of Michael's passing, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend Michael. He has been an inspiration to us all. He had a great facility with gestural communication and was a talented artist. His work has been displayed in galleries around the country. He was our group's silverback and we will miss his strong presence a great deal."

At 10:45 a.m. PDT gorilla caregiver Megan Dunn saw Michael collapse onto his back in his outdoor play area. She noted that he had labored breathing and was non-responsive to her calls. Dr. Patterson was notified immediately. She had her staff contact 911 and rushed to Michael's aid.

Despite the valiant efforts of Dr. Patterson and Foundation staff, Michael passed away at his home in Woodside, CA.

Michael had a dog named Apple, with whom he loved to play chase. He executed the painting, "Apple Chase" from memory using black and white pigments, the color of Apple's coat, although he had a large selection of colors to choose from.

"Anger" by Michael

"Apple Chase"

Apple the Dog