Michael Patrick McGroarty

Michael Patrick "Dirt McGirt" McGroartyJanuary 28, 1976 – May 9, 2025
Michael Patrick McGroarty, lovingly known by a dozen nicknames and to many as "Dirt McGirt," passed away on May 9, 2025, at the age of 49.
Born on January 28, 1976, Mike was a free spirit with a big heart and an adventurous soul. Whether tearing up trails on his dirt-bike, carving through the mountains on his snowboard, or playing a spontaneous round of disc golf, Mike brought energy and laughter wherever he went. He had a special love for animals - especially his kitties - and a lifelong fascination with wolves, his spirit animal.
Mike never met a stranger. He and his core group of friends from Heatherwood Elementary remained close throughout Junior High and High School. Whether on bike, skateboard, on foot, or eventually a practical car with a less practical sound system; Mike and his crew would roam the Gunbarrel and Boulder area at all hours of day and night enjoying the best of youth without smart phones or social media.
When he reached High School, his core group began to grow. Most went to Boulder High, but Mike went to September School, where many of his friends would end up following in years to come. The core group at Boulder High and the September School crowd began to co-mingle and the group continued to grow as everyone got jobs and changed schools. When he graduated from September School Mike was at the heart of a vibrant community of hundreds of young people across the Front Range area and everyone that new him loved his infectious smile, his silly antics and his unique style.
Mike's humor, loyalty, and spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he shared with his family and countless friends. He will be remembered for his kind heart, adventurous spirit, love of music and nature, and his love of all things Irish.
A lifelong sports fan, Mike was a proud and passionate supporter of the Denver Broncos - he held season tickets for many years and rarely missed a game. He was also a devoted fan of the Colorado Avalanche and loved cheering on his teams with friends and family.
Mike struggled for many years with clinical depression, a battle that too many face in silence. In recent months, he began using methamphetamine in an attempt to cope. Tragically, he unknowingly ingested fentanyl, a lethal substance now commonly found in street drugs, and it took his life. His death is a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need for better mental health support, compassion for those struggling with addiction, and widespread awareness of the dangers of fentanyl. If you or someone you love is suffering, please know that help is available. You are not alone. For support, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Saralee McGroarty; his father, William McGroarty; and his sister, Robin McGroarty O'Hare.
He is survived by his children, Jordan and Riley McGroarty; his stepfather, Robert Coombes; his stepmother, Blair McGroarty; his half-sisters, Suzanne and Kirsten McGroarty; his stepbrothers, Andrew and Travis Lindburg, and his stepsisters, Jennifer and Rachael Coombes.
A memorial celebration of Mike's life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Elks Lodge in Longmont, Colorado (306 Coffman St, Longmont, CO 80501). Love and Light.