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Michael James Griswold
July 24, 1944 - Apr 15, 2012
Of Manhattan Beach, died at 67 of a massive stroke. He passed in his sleep with his wife, Cynthia and stepdaughter, Page Sieffert at his side. In the last stretch of a wonderful 6 month trip to South and Central America, had a great time seeing the various countries, but, most of all, he thought it was people you meet along the way that really mattered. Michael was the beloved son of Donna and Hoxsie Griswold, father to two wonderful sons, Michael and Charles, and grandfather to Ellie and Will. He is survived by brother, Thomas Griswold; wonderful sisters, Kathy Chenoweth and Patricia McCarthy; stepson, Peter Sieffert and 9 nieces and nephews. . He retired 6 years ago from Santa Monica High after 38 years as coach, PE teacher and 9 years as athletic director. He loved coaching and the kids he coached and carried his pride in them for years later and bragged about how many of his kids went to the pros. Please sign the guest book at www.dailybreeze.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
To Coach Griswold's Family!
I am thankful for the time I spent having him as both a coach & teacher...he taught me how to believe in my abilities before achieving them and how to work whole heartedly towards a goal and the success that comes with being focused. For years I've known the impact, but now I'm making sure to share this so that others know that hard work and discipline do pay off...thanks Coach Griswold for changing my life ;~)
Sherrie Heard
May 5, 2012
we all lost a good man
barry and sharon taylor
michael griswold
April 27, 2012
Coach has always been beloved as part of the Santa Monica High School athletic family. His smile and motivation would light up a room. Mike also had the ability to coach tough love also when needed. An outstanding model for so many student athletes to learn by. Vaya Con Dios
john guilbert
April 24, 2012
As a high school sports official I knew Mike very well having been to SAMO High many times to officiate athletic events. Mike was always pleasant to be around and he helped make officials feel welcome at his school.
Mike will be missed.
Gary Van Zandt (Redondo Beach, CA)
April 24, 2012
Condolences to family and friends. Gris coached us in JV basketball 1970. I believe his background was track and field and football. The fact that he took the responsibility to coach other sports like basketball and baseball that he wasn't as knowledgeble about, tells us that he loved to coach, but also that he was a fearless leader who would take on challenges. It was never about him, but his players as a coach and his athletes as on A.D. We lost a great person. RIP Coach
Larry Arreola
April 23, 2012
We met on a street in Buenos Aires. Two couples from other places connected by chance in a far away city. Our friendship blossomed from the start. Michael a true gentleman and Cynthia his great partner. Johanne and I send your a very warm embrace. Your lost is incomprehensible and our hearts reach out to you. While our time with Michael was brief he made an indelible mark upon us. We are better for having known him and you Cynthia. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Don and Johanne Belford
April 23, 2012
Griswold family and old friends. My deep regrets I am not there to remember Mike....you are all my prayers!
Milanna fNickliss-Meyer
April 22, 2012
Thank you to everyone who writes here. It will bring me great comfort in the days and weeks to come. I can't imagine that all this is really happening and that he won't just walk in the door, take me in his arms and tell me he loves me. I miss him more each day...
Cynthia Griswold
April 22, 2012
Cindy/Page
How lucky you were to have some many years with a great person---each day is a gift---- lov to you
Carole Paquin
April 21, 2012
We were so blessed to have Coach Gris coaching our boys this past year, he was such a great mentor to so many. I will forever be grateful of the talks we had and the words of wisdom you shared with Kori. We will never forget!! Thank you for being part of a "season to remember" Kelly Samo 86
Kelly Garcia
April 21, 2012
Saddened is a word often used, but Mike enjoyed life and shared what he could and never stopped learning. As my first boy friend and friend later in years when I needed it most he was there. His life, his family and his experiences speak for themselves . Hold on to the memories! See you again some day!
Milanna Nickliss Meyer
April 20, 2012
I went to high school with Mike. We were in the process of planning our 50th reunion. I keep seeing his wonderful smile & how he loved people. He played such a huge part of planning our reunions. My condolences to his family & friends. He will truly be missed. God bless!
Laurie Bush
April 20, 2012
Dear Griswold Family ~ It is with disbelief and sadness that I send my very deepest condolences to you. Growing up, I looked up to Mike and actually thought he was the next thing to Superman. It was an honor, after many years, to have the opportunity to visit with him recently. He was still the handsome, kind and caring man I remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Kathy Moran-Ramos
April 20, 2012
I have talked with so many WHS friends that loved Mike for his ability with kids, his leadership, and most of all his ability to make long term relationships. He will be missed!
Ken Marineau
Ken Marineau
April 19, 2012
My condolence Cynthia and Family,I am sadden by this news.I am a SAMO Alum from 72-74.Coach Griswold was an inspiration to me, I will never forget him. God Bless You Coach!
Gabriel Martinez
April 19, 2012
There are so many who knew Mike better than I, but EVERYONE who knew him for even the briefest of time could feel his genuine nature. I have never heard a negative comment about Mike and can not count the number of accolades I've listened to over the years. He was a good friend to all and will be missed.
Charles Plumley
April 19, 2012
Dear Family Griswold- Rich and I are so saddened to hear of your loss. We were laughing and giggling with Mike at the WHS Reunion just last June-and talking what a wonderful stand up man he is. Mike and I served together at Airport Jr High Student Govt. He will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathy to your family.
Rich and Mary Crotsley
April 19, 2012
I am shocked and saddened by this news. We have many happy memories as kids on our visits with the family. It was nice to see him recently, Mike just missed his Mom. Love and prayers to you all. Janet Moran Florek
Janet Florek
April 19, 2012
Mr. Griswold was my P.E. teacher at North High in the late 60's. He is one of the few people ,in my life, that I wouldn't want to disappoint if he ever asked"What ever happened to?" Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Steve Morrison
April 19, 2012
Cynthia & Family , The world is a lesser a place with out Mike. I enjoyed his friendship on the v-court and golf and on the bike trail. If the ortiz's can be of any help feel free to call on us.
Our sympathy.
Pam, Todd & George
April 19, 2012
My deepest condolences to the Griswold Family. I am a SAMO Alum and current coach @ SAMO. Gris was a great coach, a better friend and an awesome human being, he will truly be missed....RIP my friend.
Jason Bevington
April 19, 2012
Dear Cynthia and Family--
You have my sympathy over the loss of your husband and father. It is comforting to know that he was enjoying himself on his trip and that he was happy. Again my deepest sympathies.
Gregory Laurinat
April 19, 2012
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