Michael McCarthy
March 10, 1962 - February 10, 2021
Elk Grove, California - Michael McCarthy passed away peacefully at home following a two-year battle with cancer. He leaves behind a family who dearly loved him, including his wife of 33 years, Kristen, his children Sarah (Perry), Matthew, and Daniel, and his granddaughter, Kaitlyn. He is also survived by his mother, Mary Ann Smart (Ron), sister Christa, brother Brian (Tonja), in-laws Katy and David Sanders, stepmother Sandra, brothers-in-law Kevin and Peter Henry, and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward.
Michael was born and raised in Sacramento. He was a proud graduate of CSU Sacramento, Stingers Up!, where he fell in love with his wife. His dedication to service was evident in his distinguished 32-year career with the Sacramento Police Department, where he enjoyed working a variety of assignments and ultimately retired having earned the rank of Captain. He then returned to his alma mater, Christian Brothers High School, where he was thrilled to work as Dean of Students for five years. He was honored to serve as a member of The La Salle Club at Christian Brothers High School, the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Sacramento Board for eight years, and the Knights of Columbus.
If you were fortunate enough to have known Michael, you would know that he had the warmest smile, kindest demeanor, an unfailing devotion to his wife and family, a great sense of humor, and a deep-rooted sense of integrity. Among Michael's many interests were a love of history, a passion for baseball – especially the Oakland Athletics, a heart-rending affection for the Sacramento Kings, and a lifelong devotion to 70s and 80s rock music. Though his professional accomplishments and accolades were numerous, Michael's proudest accomplishment and greatest joy in life was the family he built with his beloved wife.
If love could keep someone alive, Michael would still be with us today. A Funeral Mass is scheduled on Tuesday, March 23, at 11 a.m., at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk Grove. Celebration of life festivities will take place at a later date when gathering is permitted. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Christian Brothers High School or the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Sacramento.

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Published by & from Mar. 20 to Mar. 21, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael McCarthy

13 Entries

Ken

March 14, 2025

Mike was a true professional and always did what was best for the community he served. But, most of all a great friend and human being!

Jocelyne Pedrazzini

March 25, 2021

Michael was a beautiful person and a loving Father and husband. He was very much appreciated and will be missed as much by his family as by those who had the great opportunity to know him. May he rest in the arms of the Lord. It was an honor to know you and to be a small part of your family. Jocelyne and Feleno

GAYLE PERRY

March 23, 2021

Michael was one of the best men I have ever known. There aren't enough words to express what a wonderful soul he had. He adored his family and will be missed by all who were honored to have know him.

Paul Congdon

March 23, 2021

Mike, your blessings were many and I'm thankful we got to reconnect recently to plan our class reunion. While Covid put a cap on our reunion plans, it couldn't stop us from reconnecting and reminiscing with our brothers at CBHS. You will be truly missed and I thank you for all your contributions and the compassion you have for others. Thank you Mike and I'm honored to have been touched by your life.

Patricia Graham

March 22, 2021

My dear nephew Michael - you were taken away from us all too soon. I was only 9 when you were born, so you have been a part of my life as long as I can remember. You made us all proud by the way you lived your life and the wonderful family you created. You fought a good fight and now may you Rest in Peace. Love, Auntie

Gina Barbato Knepp

March 22, 2021

What a tremendous loss to his family and our community. I have never met a man more devoted to his wife and children. A true peace officer, kind, honest and benevolent. The world lost a great soul, but the heavens inherited a real saint. My sincere condolences to the McCarthy family. Our hearts hurt with you. May you find comfort in knowing you had the best husband and dad ever.

Steve Reed

March 22, 2021

Mike was one of the most respected Cops at Sac PD. He was even tempered, caring and intelligent. I will miss him! RIP Mike!

David Paul

March 20, 2021

Mike was great to work with when he and I collaborated with the Y2K project at the Sacramento Police Department. He was always friendly and made an otherwise dull project enjoyable. Sorry to hear of his passing and my condolences to the family.

Ken Barnett

March 20, 2021

Michael was the consummate gentleman, professional, friend and colleague and was always willing and ready to help the community, family and friends.

Michael will be greatly missed by family, friends, the law enforcement community and anyone who was fortunate enough to meet him.

Michael Rest In Peace and know that you will always be remembered.

Prayers and thoughts to the family.

Shana Fain McDonald

March 20, 2021

Sending love and condolences to Kristen and family. Hugs to all during this difficult time and always.

Diana Cox

March 20, 2021

Capt. McCarthy was a wonderful and caring Capt. in Comm Center....He always had a smile for everyone and his door was always open...I was honored to work for him and to know him....Condolences to his family...

JoAnne Liccardo

March 19, 2021

A lovely young man taken way too soon.

March 17, 2021

To the family,

I would like to extend my condolences to you. Life is truly precious and when we lose our loved ones it breaks our heart. Please know that God is there as a source of comfort and strength. He will hold on to you and help you get through this difficult time. Isa. 41:10.

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