Search by Name

Search by Name

Michael Stack Obituary

Michael Joseph Stack Michael Stack, age 48, left this world on April 16, 2008. Mike was a proud 4th generation, Irish, San Franciscan. He was a graduate of Our Lady of Mercy School, Saint Ignatius '77, and Golden Gate University. Mike was the star attraction at our family functions regaling us with his jokes, imitations and stories. He was a devoted 49ers and Giants fan. His happiest moments were the times he spent with the W.B.s, the mystery trips, and with a good cup of Starbucks coffee. Mike was predeceased by his father, Michael D. Stack; aunt, Ann Mullen, and adored grandmother, Katherine Brady. He is survived by his loving mother, Joan Carella; sister, Karen Catanzarite; loved nephews and niece, Douglas, Joseph and Kathryn Catanzarite; brother-in-law, Ross Catanzarite; aunts, Sister Sally Brady, O.P., Diane Stack; uncle, Frank Mullen, the Mullen and Stack cousins, and his step family, the Carellas. Friends are invited to attend the Rosary Service, Tuesday at 10:30am, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11am (ALL) at Our Lady of Mercy, 1 Elmwood Dr, Daly City. Burial to follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, Colma. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to Our Lady of Mercy School, Gym and Youth Center Fund.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle on Apr. 20, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Stack

Not sure what to say?





Stacy Passeri

May 3, 2008

I just learned of Michael's passing yesterday and it came as quite a blow. Michael had a very happy life here in Danville with a great number of friends who loved to see his smiling face. He was a daily fixture at the Blackhawk Starbucks working on behalf of his clients or working on his screenplay.

For me, we had been friends and, then, this past Valentine's day something more. I wish I could have been notified about the funeral, but Michael's phone had been dropped and broken, so no one could access any numbers. Still, I feel so fortunate to have had him in my life. We attended my daughter's opera performances together, Easter mass and worked on our screen plays together. He was starting a new business venture as was I and with that, too, we were finding pathways to stay joined.

We had the most amazing things in common both being native San Franciscans. His mother even taught at my elementary school! We shared stories about people we knew in common and were wistful of the good old days of growing up in the City.

I will miss my Michael Joseph Daniel with all my heart!!

Jeanne Costello-Morris

April 23, 2008

I was so stunned and extremely saddened to hear about Mike's passing. He's been a true and dedicated friend to me for over 30 years. Although the past few days were difficult and filled with sorrow and tears, memories of Michael brought smiles and comfort as well. When speaking yesterday at Mike's service, John, Paul and Bob thought it was tough to express adequately who Mike was and is to all of us but they did an incredible job of encapsulating his life, decade by decade.. Smiling through the tears, we all shook our heads in agreement that what we can take away, what Mike really left us was a fine example of how to truly live life well, laugh often, listen with an open heart, cherish friends, love unconditionally and dance. Michael, I'll miss you every day. I was so fortunate to be among those you considered a friend. You will continue to be deeply loved by so many. We can all be comforted knowing that you're in God's care now and have found peace.

Jim Shannon

April 22, 2008

I am very sorry to hear of the loss of our friend and classmate Mike Stack. Upon hearing the news I immediately recollected his friendly smile in the halls of S.I. Mike and his family are in my prayers. God Bless.

Corey Price-Langton

April 22, 2008

Mike was my friend, my brother and my neighbor. I have been hearing his sweet and infectious laugh throughout the last week. Sometimes it made me laugh along with him, others I cried along side of him. Mike had an inate way of making you feel like the most important person in the room as he listened intentively as if nothing else mattered at that moment. I was lucky enough to know Mike since I was 4yrs old. I will be planting a pot of forget-me-nots in Mikes honor. They always come back and they are welcomed when you see them. I grieve for his family and friends and I mourn for those who were not lucky enough to get to know him. My love and heart felt sympathy to the family and friends of Mike. He shined and always will.

Kathy Drucker

April 22, 2008

Dear Joan,

My heart goes out to you and the entire Stack/Mullen Family! I too will always remember Mike's beautiful smile! You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Much love,

Kathy Drucker

J Fautt

April 21, 2008

Michael always had a great smile and a hug anytime I ran into him at the Danville coffee shops. He was always open to talking and was a great listener and a wonderful person. He always offered his time and advice, and was a remarkable and attentive man to speak with. He listened like there wasn't a crowd of people in the room. Not a day will go by that I don't drive through Danville and past a coffee shop, and think of the mornings I walked in the door to see Michael there with warm smile, a gracious hug hello, and an ever open heart for anyone who sat with him. He will be missed by many who visit those places. He is memorable man, not to be forgotten.

Jay Bechtel

April 21, 2008

Mike had a razor like memory of our days at OLM; he and I forever debated how many goals our soccer team scored at OLM. He always maintained it was zero (and we played for 5 years!). Mike was the best bunter on our baseball team and usually beat them out as well. My Dad fondly referred to him as our 2nd cleanup hitter.

You will be sorely missed, Mike. Godspeed.

Jeannette Eidler-Snyder

April 20, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many good memories of growing up with Mike. He was my buddy that lived 2 houses down from me. I remember walking to kindergarten with him and we'd exchange wearing each other eye glasses - we both had horrible eyesight! He sure bloomed into a nice looking guy. I will never forget him! He was a big part of my life that I will never forget. I am so sorry that I can't attend his services, my husband has been very ill.

Mark Mc Donough

April 20, 2008

My heartfelt sympathies and sincere regrets go out to the family and friends of Michael J. Stack. Mike and I met briefly about 30 years ago, and ran into each other in 2001. Since 2001,we have talked often, met frequently, and most of all, laughed often. Mike Stack, with his head tilted back and up, in full laughter, is how I will remember him most. His friendship and company will be missed equally.

Cindy Passanisi

April 20, 2008

Mike was a dear dear friend to us. He will live in our thoughts and prayers forever. Tomorrow, on Patriots day, Tom runs the Boston Marathon. To celebrate Mike's life, Tom will dedicate his run to Mike's honor. Tom Sweeney & Cindy

Lori White Rolovich

April 20, 2008

Please accept my deepest sympathies and sadness at the loss of your dear son and brother Mike. Memories of Mike and the Westbrook/Dorchester gang will live on in all of our hearts forever. Those were magical times and Mike was such a wonderful part of them. His "map of Ireland" was ever present, along with a smile and a hand for all. He had a kind and generous heart and so many friends will miss him. I am so sorry for your broken hearts, but please know that he was loved by so many. I am sure he knows that now, as he is embraced by God's loving and protective arms.

Another angel watches over all of us today. Godspeed, Mike, and thanks for the cherished memories. You will not be forgotten...

Deanna Price Diehl

April 20, 2008

Everyone loved Mike including myself. He spent a lot of time at my house playing with my son Dougie. I had the pleasure of seeing him last year all grown up. He will be sorely missed.

Roger deSouza

April 20, 2008

My ever lasting memory of Mike will be his wonderful smile and always friendly nature. My prayers to his family and many friends.

Margaret Diggins

April 20, 2008

Dear Joan,
So sorry to hear of Michael's passing. My sincere sympathies to you and all the family.
Margaret Diggins

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Stack's name

Memorial Events
for Michael Stack

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Michael's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Stack's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more