Michael “Mike” Ralph Garvey

Michael "Mike" Ralph Garvey, 77, passed away on January 30, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois, after a long and hard-fought battle with COPD.

Mike was born on August 19, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Mira Costa High School in 1966 and soon after answered the call to serve, spending 1966–1969 in the United States Marine Corps, including two tours of duty in Vietnam.

After his service, Mike built a long and successful career in industrial manufacturing sales, retiring from Ogura Industrial as National Sales Manager. He took pride in his work, but some of his favorite moments weren't in an office at all; they were out on the road. Mike enjoyed "windshield time" with his friend and co-worker, Louie Bernabei, traveling the Midwest to visit customers. Mike had a remarkable gift for telling stories that were enjoyed by everyone.

Mike also had a deep love of history, especially the Civil War, which he shared with his dear friend Chuck Smith. Together they visited Gettysburg National Battlefield, exploring the site in detail and taking the time to talk with historians, an experience Mike truly treasured.

More than anything, Mike loved his family, and he especially loved his wife, Robin. Through the long, difficult years of his illness, Robin showed him steady devotion. Her patience, tenderness, and loyalty never wavered. He knew exactly how much of herself she gave, and he was deeply grateful for it.

He took enormous pride in his children, and he absolutely lit up around his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. At family gatherings, it was never a surprise to find Mike drifting away from the adults and settling in where the laughter was, pulling up a chair at the kids' table, listening to their stories, cheering on their latest interests, and enjoying the simple fun of being part of their world. He had a calm, easy way with young people: attentive, kind, and genuinely interested. Those moments - small conversations, shared jokes, and the happy noise of a busy family - were where Mike was most at home.

Mike is survived by his wife, Robin; his sons, Connor (Erin) Garvey and Logan Garvey; his granddaughters, Alice and Guinevere, both of San Jose, California; his grandson, Kellan, of Brisbane, Australia; his sister, Christine R. (Jim) Touchton; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John E. Garvey and Eunice E. (Glaser) Garvey-Rogers; his brothers, John R. Garvey, who is survived by Julie, and Henry H. Rogers, who is survived by Zoe; his sisters, Penny (Joe) Gagne and Terri Ann Garvey, who is survived by Frank Perrone.

The family extends special thanks to the caring staff at Mercy Riverside, and to friends Chuck and Louie for their steadfast support and friendship.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to Remedies of Rockford.

Mike will be deeply missed and fondly remembered - always a Marine, always a gentleman, and someone whose presence made the day feel brighter.