A native of Bremerton, Michael enlisted in the Army in 1965 and served in Vietnam where he lost his right leg in a land mine explosion and was medically retired in 1968. In Vietnam, he earned a Silver Star, Bronze Star, Air Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnamese Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal and 2 Purple Hearts.

 

Two years after retiring from the Army, Michael opened his Irish import store in Pioneer Square and got very involved in the Irish community, helping start Seattle's St. Patrick's Day Parade in 1972. He had what he called a "Dress Leg" which he wore on special occasions. It was a spare wooden leg with Irish and Celtic design engravings which he always wore around St. Patrick's Day. He was very active with the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and was made Honorary Grand Marshal of Seattle's St. Patrick's Day Parade in 1997. His interest in preservation brought him to Ireland frequently where he helped renovate Ballyboe Cottage and Donegal Castle, often while spending several months there at a time. In 1986, Michael closed the Irish store and retired to Allyn, not far from where he grew up.

 

Michael was a generous and very likable person who loved his Irish heritage, and the world is far poorer with his passing. Sincere condolences to his surviving sister and brother and other family members.