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BORN
1940
DIED
2013
FUNERAL HOME
MICHAEL GRADL Obituary
He was born in Appleton, Wisconsin on September 4, 1940, the third of four sons born to Michael and Wilma Gradl. Mike grew up on a dairy farm and from a young age, loved books and sports. He graduated from Hortonville High School as class valedictorian in 1958. In 1962, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics.
Mike began his lifelong career in finance as an auditor with the Bendix Corporation. When Bendix purchased the Skagit plant in Sedro-Woolley in 1969, he came to the Pacific Northwest. He remained at Skagit, holding various financial positions until its closure in 1990. Michael then joined the finance department at Skagit Valley Hospital, where he worked until his retirement. After retirement, he worked for MIN-NS on a part-time basis.
Michael loved books, WWII history, the Seahawks, the Mariners, annual trips to Hawaii, golfing, and driving his 1974 Porsche. But most of all, Michael loved his girls. He was a devoted husband of 37 years to Jan, and a proud, loving dad to Courtney and Kacee.
He is survived by Jan, Courtney and son-in-law Mark, and Kacee. Also, brother Glenn and sister-in-law Sherry; father and mother-in-law Neil and Dee McIlrath; sister and brother-in-law Lisa and David Svaren; sister-in-law Cheri McIlrath and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Eugene and sister-in-law Gerry; brother Ken and sister-in-law Betty.
A celebration of his life will be held at the family home on Sunday, June 2nd from 1 to 4 pm. Memorials are suggested to a favorite charity.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL GRADL
Kallshian Family
June 9, 2013
Fond memories of being neighbors and all the best thoughts from our family to yours.
Cristina Buenbrazo
June 7, 2013
Although I didn't know Mr. Gradl very well as I only met him once, but I did get to know his daughter Kacee well. I loved hearing how close Kacee has always been to her parents. Her parents did a wonderful job raising beautiful bright young ladies! I'm so sorry for this very difficult time in your lives. I have you all in my prayers.
Your friend,
Cristina
Liz Browning
June 2, 2013
Dear Jan, Courtney and Kacee,
I was saddened to hear of Mike's passing. Although we have never met, Mike always talked about his family with love and pride. He is missed by his Cardiac Rehab/Heart Healthy Fitness friends. Blessings and peace to you all.
Tom and Sandi Rodenbough
June 2, 2013
To the Gradl girls....You are all in our thoughts. We only met Mike in the last year when Mark & Courtney planned to marry. Yes, he loved his wife and daughters...that was more than apparent. Mike and my son, Mark had an instant connection...they both loved Courtney, golf and sports! Thank you Mike for sharing your time with us...you will be missed and long remembered. We feel blessed to have known you. Special thoughts for you Jan, Courtney, and Kacee.
May 31, 2013
Jan, Courtney and Kacee-
You have my deepest sympathy. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Your husband/father was a wonderful person that will be missed very much. Mandy Englund (Mainard)
May 31, 2013
The last message of May 31st was from Peggy McCormack.
May 31, 2013
Dear Jan, Courtney and Kacee,
I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I'm glad that he was at home surrounded by his loving family, though, and that he was at peace. I enjoyed the times that I was able to spend with Mike; he had such a feeling of warmth and humor around him. No wonder his daughters are so wonderful (with some help from Jan, of course!). He will be missed.
Pat
May 31, 2013
May you find comfort and treasure the memories of your loved one. I send my sincere condolences. (Romans15:4)
Dewayne & Angie
May 30, 2013
May the love of friends, family, and special memories carry you through your grief. I will always remember Mike as quiet and kind, with a smile that would light up the room.
Tamara Cesena
May 25, 2013
Jan, Courtney and Kacee,
Words cannot express how much I will miss Mike or how sorry I am for your loss. I was reading a book the other day and came upon this quote: "Tell your friend that in his death, a part of you dies and goes with him. Wherever he goes, you also go. He will not be alone." (Jiddu Krishnamurti). Mike had so many people who appreciated his friendship that I know he is not alone. He will live on in our hearts and memories.
May 24, 2013
Kacee, I was just talking about you. So sorry for your loss. Brooke S.
Liz Movius
May 24, 2013
Jan, Kacee and Courtney ~ I am so terribly sorry to hear about Mike's passing. He was a great man and I hope the wonderful memories together give you comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
May 24, 2013
Kacee, we are sorry for the loss of your Father,our prayers are with you and your family.
Your friends at Burlington Branch
Nancy Keim
May 24, 2013
Jan, I just sent a card of concern for Mike yesterday, I can't tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Please know you and the girls are in my thoughts and prayers. All of us at the dental office will miss him terribly. Nancy
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
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