Michael Sean Tansey

TANSEY, Michael Sean, 63, loving husband, devoted father, dependable friend, died suddenly Friday, December 5, 2008. He is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Susan F. Tansey; son, Sean N. Tansey and wife, Christina M. Tansey; granddaughter, Corinne McMichael; daughter-in-law, Tammy L. Boyer; mother, Shannon H. Tansey; mother-in-law, Evelyn L. Frith. Additional survivors include brother, Kevin C. (Ginger) Tansey; sisters, Quita T. (Bill) Collins, Maureen M. Tansey, Colleen T. (David) Keller; sister-in-law, Sharon & Frank Bradley, Charles "Buddy" & Debbie Frith, David & Anna Frith, Sherry & Dorsett Tinsley and Michael A. Frith. He was predeceased by father, John B. Tansey, and father-in-law Charlie A. Frith Jr. He is also survived by 'bunches' of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Michael served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam Era, and later in the Marine Corps Reserves. He was a dedicated police officer with Henrico County Police and retired from Richmond City Police Department after serving in many departments, including K-9, S.W.A.T, and as a pilot with Helicopter Patrol. Michael then became a manufacturing supervisor with Philip Morris, USA, retiring after a 17-year career with the company. Michael's love for knowledge led his quest to become self-taught in any area that caught his eye. He held a brown belt in karate and "he could fix anything" whether it involved electrical, carpentry, or automotive. For many years Michael was an avid skydiver, and his enthusiasm brought many to the sport. He loved snow skiing, wrote poetry, cooked, and painted; and in retirement, created beautiful handcrafted furniture and gifts. Michael and his extended family and network of friends enjoyed countless hours of boating and jet skiing at their river house "Tansey Time" in Tappahannock. Despite his active lifestyle, if you needed help with anything, all you had to do was ask. With Michael's help came a joke, a story, a gleam in his eye, and a beautiful smile. Michael was Unforgettable to ALL who were fortunate enough to encounter him. The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Mechanicsville Chapel, Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville, where a memorial service will be held immediately following visitation. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.